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H10N1
A deadly influenza virus rages out of control. There is no easy-fix vaccine. No eleventh-hour containment. Only death. With no workforce, power plants have been shut down, police and fire departments have collapsed, crops lie unpicked in the fields.
When Dr. Taeya Sanchez finds herself unceremoniously dismissed from an emergency medical facility in New York, she decides to steal the hospital's armored van for a midnight escape. Unfortunately, Rick DeAngelo, a driver for the hospital, has already stocked the van for his own getaway.
Thrown into an unfriendly alliance, these two must pick their way across the dangerous wasteland of America in search of a safe haven. And as the miles roll by, they discover that the living should be feared much more than the festering corpses out there.
When Dr. Taeya Sanchez finds herself unceremoniously dismissed from an emergency medical facility in New York, she decides to steal the hospital's armored van for a midnight escape. Unfortunately, Rick DeAngelo, a driver for the hospital, has already stocked the van for his own getaway.
Thrown into an unfriendly alliance, these two must pick their way across the dangerous wasteland of America in search of a safe haven. And as the miles roll by, they discover that the living should be feared much more than the festering corpses out there.
340 pages, Paperback
First published April 12, 2011
58 people are currently reading
1126 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
November 25, 2011
I LOVED the first chapter. It was shocking, in your face and I thought wow, I'm gonna love this book. And then I read the rest of it.
And I am sad to say I was disappointed. As a med student I'm fascinated by things dealing with virus outbreaks or super bacteria and all that stuff wiping out the human race. Because seriously, that is what scares me. That is exactly what I'm scared of happening in the future and it isn't an unrealistic fear unfortunately. But enough of that.
I wasn't really sure what the point of the plot was. I felt like there was stuff happening, but I didn't really know why. I also thought it would have been about the virus spreading and all that, but it was actually after the initial wave and about the survivors of that. I also didn't really feel the romance, I didn't get it and I didn't think it was realistic.
Another thing I had a problem with: the main character is an epidemiologist, which is basically someone who studies things like patterns and risk factors and such. There are those who work 'in the field' so to speak, but it's usually only about infection control then, not so much the other areas of medicine. And I believed an epidemiologist knows how to stitch someone up, I do, because it's basic medical training. But you CANNOT tell me they also know how to perform complicated surgeries after someone is shot and there was also an inconsistency where for her to be able to do something she did, she'd have to have opened the patient up in two places and there was only one operating wound.
Yes I am ranting, but this really bothers me because this is what I know. Because I see this kind of stuff every day and I don't get how people think that being a doctor means you can do ALL THE THINGS. You can't. That's why we have all those different kinds of doctors.
Ok, stopping the rant.
I did like the whole idea behind the book with the virus outbreak and everything and seriously you guys, I loved the first chapter. If the book had continued in that way, it would have been amazing. But after that things went downhill for me.
My rating: 1,5 stars
And I am sad to say I was disappointed. As a med student I'm fascinated by things dealing with virus outbreaks or super bacteria and all that stuff wiping out the human race. Because seriously, that is what scares me. That is exactly what I'm scared of happening in the future and it isn't an unrealistic fear unfortunately. But enough of that.
I wasn't really sure what the point of the plot was. I felt like there was stuff happening, but I didn't really know why. I also thought it would have been about the virus spreading and all that, but it was actually after the initial wave and about the survivors of that. I also didn't really feel the romance, I didn't get it and I didn't think it was realistic.
Another thing I had a problem with: the main character is an epidemiologist, which is basically someone who studies things like patterns and risk factors and such. There are those who work 'in the field' so to speak, but it's usually only about infection control then, not so much the other areas of medicine. And I believed an epidemiologist knows how to stitch someone up, I do, because it's basic medical training. But you CANNOT tell me they also know how to perform complicated surgeries after someone is shot and there was also an inconsistency where for her to be able to do something she did, she'd have to have opened the patient up in two places and there was only one operating wound.
Yes I am ranting, but this really bothers me because this is what I know. Because I see this kind of stuff every day and I don't get how people think that being a doctor means you can do ALL THE THINGS. You can't. That's why we have all those different kinds of doctors.
Ok, stopping the rant.
I did like the whole idea behind the book with the virus outbreak and everything and seriously you guys, I loved the first chapter. If the book had continued in that way, it would have been amazing. But after that things went downhill for me.
My rating: 1,5 stars
July 9, 2012
There is just no way to say how disappointing this book was. While the beginning showed promise and the idea of what would happen in the wake of a global pandemic had the makings of a good plot, this story line started getting less and less interesting about a third of a way through the book when it became clear that the pandemic was no longer the focus of the story.
I kept thinking that at some point the characters would be led back to the original storyline but instead the writer threw everything and the kitchen sink into the plot. Maybe the idea was to confuse things but over the next few chapters we were introduced to: bikers itching for a fight, rocket launchers, a house collapse, stolen motor home, Really nasty moonshine made from sweet potatoes, a forest fire, septic tank clean-out truck adapted to carry fuel, biosphere, rice paddie, and on and on. None of them helped the story hang together, that is for sure!
Even at that point I tried to give the book a fair shot; and then the sexist language, four letter words and lecherous behavior started. Give me a break.
What a total waste of time. I stopped reading when a character hires leather clad cowboys to get his revenge on some of the virus survivors. That was the last straw for me; mark this one a disappointing waste. I have no idea how it has almost 4 stars from any reader. And it really had next to nothing to do with a pandemic. Bad; very bad; and it makes it into my "Groaningly Bad" category.
I kept thinking that at some point the characters would be led back to the original storyline but instead the writer threw everything and the kitchen sink into the plot. Maybe the idea was to confuse things but over the next few chapters we were introduced to: bikers itching for a fight, rocket launchers, a house collapse, stolen motor home, Really nasty moonshine made from sweet potatoes, a forest fire, septic tank clean-out truck adapted to carry fuel, biosphere, rice paddie, and on and on. None of them helped the story hang together, that is for sure!
Even at that point I tried to give the book a fair shot; and then the sexist language, four letter words and lecherous behavior started. Give me a break.
What a total waste of time. I stopped reading when a character hires leather clad cowboys to get his revenge on some of the virus survivors. That was the last straw for me; mark this one a disappointing waste. I have no idea how it has almost 4 stars from any reader. And it really had next to nothing to do with a pandemic. Bad; very bad; and it makes it into my "Groaningly Bad" category.
February 4, 2012
This post-apocalyptic book started with a really great first chapter that absolutely grabbed me. Unfortunately, reading further and seeing the state of civilization, that first chapter made no sense. Clearly the author had this idea for a great hook and was determined to use it.
The book started out fairly strong but then it fizzled. The romance between the main characters moved way too fast and seemed very unrealistic. The part set in Biosphere II didn't ring true to me. I visited the site a few years ago and read a couple of books about it and I just couldn't stop myself from reading over-critically. Then it abruptly wraps up . I couldn't recommend this.
The book started out fairly strong but then it fizzled. The romance between the main characters moved way too fast and seemed very unrealistic. The part set in Biosphere II didn't ring true to me. I visited the site a few years ago and read a couple of books about it and I just couldn't stop myself from reading over-critically. Then it abruptly wraps up . I couldn't recommend this.
September 17, 2012
I downloaded this book quite a while ago, and I’m really happy I did. It turned out to be such a fantastic and enjoyable read!
Most of the books I’ve been reading lately had paranormal elements in the story, so reading “H10 N1” which has no supernatural creatures or beings or anything paranormal in the story line, was a welcome relief. The plot is quite original in that the virus in this story was manmade and spread by the Koreans. What made it an even more gripping and nerve-wracking read is the frighteningly real possibility that this could happen in the world as we know it.
Usually, in some of these post-apocalyptic novels, you’ll find zombies or some form of the walking dead or undead. Not in this story. The author gets your heart racing out of control with vivid descriptions of the terrifying journey the two main characters had to undertake to get to a place of safety away from the virus; and their fight for survival along the way - from being attacked by road gangs and not being infected by carriers of the virus, to driving through a burning forest and dealing with many more heart-stopping confrontations.
I’m a big fan of explosive action in books and there’s no shortage of that in this story. Think rocket launchers and gun fights, edge-of-your-seat suspense and a few unexpected plot twists, and you’ll only have a slight idea of what you’re letting yourself in for. My fear of rabid dogs was thoroughly preyed upon in one disturbing scene in this riveting novel. As I’m not a fan of romance books, I enjoyed that the two main characters didn’t fall in love instantly, and the way they got on each other’s nerves had me laughing out loud at times.
The writing flows well and the story cruises along at a comfortable pace. I very much enjoyed the author’s sense of humor which was evident in the dialogue between a few of the main characters. All in all, this is a terrific novel which I won’t hesitate to recommend to my family and closest friends as one of the best reads of the year.
Most of the books I’ve been reading lately had paranormal elements in the story, so reading “H10 N1” which has no supernatural creatures or beings or anything paranormal in the story line, was a welcome relief. The plot is quite original in that the virus in this story was manmade and spread by the Koreans. What made it an even more gripping and nerve-wracking read is the frighteningly real possibility that this could happen in the world as we know it.
Usually, in some of these post-apocalyptic novels, you’ll find zombies or some form of the walking dead or undead. Not in this story. The author gets your heart racing out of control with vivid descriptions of the terrifying journey the two main characters had to undertake to get to a place of safety away from the virus; and their fight for survival along the way - from being attacked by road gangs and not being infected by carriers of the virus, to driving through a burning forest and dealing with many more heart-stopping confrontations.
I’m a big fan of explosive action in books and there’s no shortage of that in this story. Think rocket launchers and gun fights, edge-of-your-seat suspense and a few unexpected plot twists, and you’ll only have a slight idea of what you’re letting yourself in for. My fear of rabid dogs was thoroughly preyed upon in one disturbing scene in this riveting novel. As I’m not a fan of romance books, I enjoyed that the two main characters didn’t fall in love instantly, and the way they got on each other’s nerves had me laughing out loud at times.
The writing flows well and the story cruises along at a comfortable pace. I very much enjoyed the author’s sense of humor which was evident in the dialogue between a few of the main characters. All in all, this is a terrific novel which I won’t hesitate to recommend to my family and closest friends as one of the best reads of the year.
February 5, 2012
Book Blurb:
A deadly influenza virus rages out of control. There is no easy-fix vaccine. No eleventh-hour containment. Only death.
With no workforce, power plants are unmanned so there’s no means of communication; police and fire departments have collapsed so no one is safe; looters are scavenging everything from big-screen TVs to canned peas.
When Dr. Taeya Sanchez finds herself unceremoniously dismissed from an emergency medical facility in New York, she decides to steal the hospital’s armored van for a midnight escape.
Unfortunately, Rick DeAngelo, a driver for the hospital, has already stocked the van for his own getaway.
Thrown into an unfriendly alliance, these two must pick their way across the dangerous wasteland of America in search of a safe haven. And as the miles roll by, they discover that the living should be feared much more than the festering corpses out there.
My Review:
First of all this book blurb (taken from Amazon.com) doesn't do it justice.
When author M.R. Cornelius asked me to read this book, she likened it to the movie Contagion and she sent me the first chapter to read as a sample. I haven't seen that movie, although I do understand the gist of it.
The first chapter of H10N1 sent chills down my spine so of course I told her I'd love to read it!
This is the story of two people who reluctantly join forces while struggling to survive a world-wide pandemic in the near future. It is a chilling tale in part, full of the violence that ensues when people are hopeless and it is a kill or be killed world. If there was a pandemic and no place was safe where would you go? What would you do?
M.R. Cornelius put a lot of thought into that situation and the story she has written is, in my view, quite a believable one. Dr. Taeya Sanchez and Rick DeAngelo do all they can to survive. This is a novel of good and evil, an epic journey, a destination, and hope.
A deadly influenza virus rages out of control. There is no easy-fix vaccine. No eleventh-hour containment. Only death.
With no workforce, power plants are unmanned so there’s no means of communication; police and fire departments have collapsed so no one is safe; looters are scavenging everything from big-screen TVs to canned peas.
When Dr. Taeya Sanchez finds herself unceremoniously dismissed from an emergency medical facility in New York, she decides to steal the hospital’s armored van for a midnight escape.
Unfortunately, Rick DeAngelo, a driver for the hospital, has already stocked the van for his own getaway.
Thrown into an unfriendly alliance, these two must pick their way across the dangerous wasteland of America in search of a safe haven. And as the miles roll by, they discover that the living should be feared much more than the festering corpses out there.
My Review:
First of all this book blurb (taken from Amazon.com) doesn't do it justice.
When author M.R. Cornelius asked me to read this book, she likened it to the movie Contagion and she sent me the first chapter to read as a sample. I haven't seen that movie, although I do understand the gist of it.
The first chapter of H10N1 sent chills down my spine so of course I told her I'd love to read it!
This is the story of two people who reluctantly join forces while struggling to survive a world-wide pandemic in the near future. It is a chilling tale in part, full of the violence that ensues when people are hopeless and it is a kill or be killed world. If there was a pandemic and no place was safe where would you go? What would you do?
M.R. Cornelius put a lot of thought into that situation and the story she has written is, in my view, quite a believable one. Dr. Taeya Sanchez and Rick DeAngelo do all they can to survive. This is a novel of good and evil, an epic journey, a destination, and hope.
April 1, 2012
When Kim first asked me to review H10N1 by M.R. Cornelius, I was definitely excited. Not only was it a book that was a post-apocalyptic thriller, which is right up my alley, but it was also about a deadly strain of the influenza virus. For those of you who don’t know, I work for a company that researches influenza and is producing a seasonal and pandemic vaccine. So, not only was I excited to read this book for its genre, but I was also excited because it’s about a subject near and dear to my heart.
The novel begins with the pandemic already in full swing with a fraction of the population alive and holed up in safe areas, attempting to sort the remaining survivors into safe camps and study those infected by the virus. Dr. Taeya Sanchez is an epidemiologist who currently works at the Army Medical Center in New York, one of a few government-run medical centers left in the country that exists to treat and sort the incoming population into appropriate safe zones, or if necessary, facilitate their disposal if infected. A problem arises when Dr. Sanchez voices her opinions over the mass euthanization of infected individuals to the facility’s director, and her credentials are revoked. Fearing that she will be soon fired and left to fend for herself, she prepares to leave the facility, stocked with supplies and medicine, when she runs into Rick DeAngelo. Rick is one of the facility’s drivers, and convinces her to leave with him in an armored van that he normally pilots for the facility. Although Sanchez is not the biggest fan of Rick based on her observations of his attitude and demeanor towards her previously, she decides to take him up on the offer and escape with him. What follows is a tale packed with action and adventure as the pair wind their way towards a farm in Arkansas and then on to a bio-containment dome in Arizona. Will they be able to find help? Will they learn to trust each other and put their differences aside? Will a cure be discovered?
As I’ve said before, the scariest and most intriguing part of post-apocalyptic fiction is the interactions between the survivors. More than the external threat, whether it’s zombies or a virus or a disease, is the threat of human nature. When pushed to the limit, there is no telling what lows people will sink to in order to survive. This is just as true in H10N1, as Sanchez and Rick must fight off attacks from other survivors as they make their way across the country. Preconceived notions make Rick almost shoot a pregnant woman, and they fend off attacks from gangs hell-bent on attacking them to steal their supplies and vehicle. These events go to show that the heightened emotions of the situation can make even the most calm and collected individual a completely different person. Additionally, there isn’t a lot of scientific information about this particular strain of virus (and that’s ok!) because the real threat comes from those around the main characters. It’s very interesting how survival mechanisms take away most senses of right and wrong in order to protect the individual. The key is to not let these take over, and to remain human in the face of the horrors that surround everyone. In doing so Sanchez and Rick maintain their cool and are better off than those frantically trying to survive based on instinct alone. While I would have liked a little more scientific information about the specific disease (what can I say, I’m a nerd…), the book was a fantastic read from start to finish. Cornelius really knows how to tell a story, and multiple times I felt as if I were in that van with Sanchez and Rick rolling across America in search of a safe haven. She really knows how to set the story, the character development is solid, and the plot is well-developed. I applaud this, her first publication, as a great success, and can only hope to read what else she has in store. If you’re a fan of Contagion or The Walking Dead, this will be perfect. Go grab a copy!
Todd (Reflections of a Book Addict)
http://wp.me/p18lIL-TL
The novel begins with the pandemic already in full swing with a fraction of the population alive and holed up in safe areas, attempting to sort the remaining survivors into safe camps and study those infected by the virus. Dr. Taeya Sanchez is an epidemiologist who currently works at the Army Medical Center in New York, one of a few government-run medical centers left in the country that exists to treat and sort the incoming population into appropriate safe zones, or if necessary, facilitate their disposal if infected. A problem arises when Dr. Sanchez voices her opinions over the mass euthanization of infected individuals to the facility’s director, and her credentials are revoked. Fearing that she will be soon fired and left to fend for herself, she prepares to leave the facility, stocked with supplies and medicine, when she runs into Rick DeAngelo. Rick is one of the facility’s drivers, and convinces her to leave with him in an armored van that he normally pilots for the facility. Although Sanchez is not the biggest fan of Rick based on her observations of his attitude and demeanor towards her previously, she decides to take him up on the offer and escape with him. What follows is a tale packed with action and adventure as the pair wind their way towards a farm in Arkansas and then on to a bio-containment dome in Arizona. Will they be able to find help? Will they learn to trust each other and put their differences aside? Will a cure be discovered?
As I’ve said before, the scariest and most intriguing part of post-apocalyptic fiction is the interactions between the survivors. More than the external threat, whether it’s zombies or a virus or a disease, is the threat of human nature. When pushed to the limit, there is no telling what lows people will sink to in order to survive. This is just as true in H10N1, as Sanchez and Rick must fight off attacks from other survivors as they make their way across the country. Preconceived notions make Rick almost shoot a pregnant woman, and they fend off attacks from gangs hell-bent on attacking them to steal their supplies and vehicle. These events go to show that the heightened emotions of the situation can make even the most calm and collected individual a completely different person. Additionally, there isn’t a lot of scientific information about this particular strain of virus (and that’s ok!) because the real threat comes from those around the main characters. It’s very interesting how survival mechanisms take away most senses of right and wrong in order to protect the individual. The key is to not let these take over, and to remain human in the face of the horrors that surround everyone. In doing so Sanchez and Rick maintain their cool and are better off than those frantically trying to survive based on instinct alone. While I would have liked a little more scientific information about the specific disease (what can I say, I’m a nerd…), the book was a fantastic read from start to finish. Cornelius really knows how to tell a story, and multiple times I felt as if I were in that van with Sanchez and Rick rolling across America in search of a safe haven. She really knows how to set the story, the character development is solid, and the plot is well-developed. I applaud this, her first publication, as a great success, and can only hope to read what else she has in store. If you’re a fan of Contagion or The Walking Dead, this will be perfect. Go grab a copy!
Todd (Reflections of a Book Addict)
http://wp.me/p18lIL-TL
August 7, 2012
Solid three-and-a-half star must read for PA fans!
I'm a sucker for post-apocalyptic thrillers, especially when they're free. So when M.R. Cornelius' H10N1 popped up on Kindle's Top 100 Free Books list I snatched it up faster than you can say bird flu. Despite the snatching, it then languished on my Kindle for a while until I got in the mood for the gloom and doom of a world ravaged by disease and social collapse. Yes, I actually DO get in the mood for that occasionally -- go figure.
H10N1 follows Dr. Taeya Sanchez and Rick DeAngelo's struggle to survive the aftermath of a devastating flu virus that has decimated the population. Dr. Sanchez, an epidemiologist with the CDC, feels time is running out for her in the relatively safe environment of the east coast hospital she is working and living in; not only has she pissed off her boss, rumor has it there are some surviving Washington elite looking for new digs. Rick, a truck driver and general opportunist, has been planning his escape from the city for a while.
A chance meeting as they execute their escapes throw these two together for a trip across the country -- he to his hippie survivalist friends' farm in Arkansas, she to her friend living in the Biodome in Arizona. The obligatory sparks fly as these two clash their way across the desolate and dangerous landscape.
Ms. Cornelius is a talented storyteller with a polished writing style. The plot, while at times predictable, is solid and interesting and the pace keeps you turning the page (or tapping the screen, as the case may be).
The author has admittedly tried her hand at writing romance novels, and it shows in the Taeya/Rick love story plotline. Not being a big fan of the romance genre, parts of this book left me wanting to poke my own eyes out. Not that it was poorly written, it's just not my thing. It might be another reader's favorite element of the book. My humble opinion, this type of novel could have successfully fleshed out their relationship without the romance-type writing style.
All in all, however, I did enjoy H10N1 very much and I think Marsha Cornelius is definitely an author to watch. Her writing style is fluid and easy to read, the characters well-rounded and likeable despite -- or because of -- their faults. I loved the Biodome scenes, and despite the fact that it was a tad cliché I really enjoyed the ending. Perhaps I'm a little bit of a romantic after all. ;)
I'm a sucker for post-apocalyptic thrillers, especially when they're free. So when M.R. Cornelius' H10N1 popped up on Kindle's Top 100 Free Books list I snatched it up faster than you can say bird flu. Despite the snatching, it then languished on my Kindle for a while until I got in the mood for the gloom and doom of a world ravaged by disease and social collapse. Yes, I actually DO get in the mood for that occasionally -- go figure.
H10N1 follows Dr. Taeya Sanchez and Rick DeAngelo's struggle to survive the aftermath of a devastating flu virus that has decimated the population. Dr. Sanchez, an epidemiologist with the CDC, feels time is running out for her in the relatively safe environment of the east coast hospital she is working and living in; not only has she pissed off her boss, rumor has it there are some surviving Washington elite looking for new digs. Rick, a truck driver and general opportunist, has been planning his escape from the city for a while.
A chance meeting as they execute their escapes throw these two together for a trip across the country -- he to his hippie survivalist friends' farm in Arkansas, she to her friend living in the Biodome in Arizona. The obligatory sparks fly as these two clash their way across the desolate and dangerous landscape.
Ms. Cornelius is a talented storyteller with a polished writing style. The plot, while at times predictable, is solid and interesting and the pace keeps you turning the page (or tapping the screen, as the case may be).
The author has admittedly tried her hand at writing romance novels, and it shows in the Taeya/Rick love story plotline. Not being a big fan of the romance genre, parts of this book left me wanting to poke my own eyes out. Not that it was poorly written, it's just not my thing. It might be another reader's favorite element of the book. My humble opinion, this type of novel could have successfully fleshed out their relationship without the romance-type writing style.
All in all, however, I did enjoy H10N1 very much and I think Marsha Cornelius is definitely an author to watch. Her writing style is fluid and easy to read, the characters well-rounded and likeable despite -- or because of -- their faults. I loved the Biodome scenes, and despite the fact that it was a tad cliché I really enjoyed the ending. Perhaps I'm a little bit of a romantic after all. ;)
March 1, 2015
*Received review copy from the author in exchange for an honest review*
From Goodreads: A deadly influenza virus rages out of control. There is no easy-fix vaccine. No eleventh-hour containment. Only death. With no workforce, power plants have been shut down, police and fire departments have collapsed, crops lie unpicked in the fields.
When Dr. Taeya Sanchez finds herself unceremoniously dismissed from an emergency medical facility in New York, she decides to steal the hospital's armored van for a midnight escape. Unfortunately, Rick DeAngelo, a driver for the hospital, has already stocked the van for his own getaway.
Thrown into an unfriendly alliance, these two must pick their way across the dangerous wasteland of America in search of a safe haven. And as the miles roll by, they discover that the living should be feared much more than the festering corpses out there.
Raging infections, death, the end of the world...pretty much that's what you get here. Not a pretty scenario, and I *really* hope it never comes to that, because I'm a wimp and I'd be one of the first to go.
I feel like there was a lot of potential here. I was intrigued by the Goodreads synopsis and eager to read. Sadly, I didn't love it. Don't get me wrong, I didn't hate it either. I just didn't ever really get to the point where I was sucked in and riveted. The characters never connected for me and I found their love story a little on the 'huh?' side. (of course, it could make perfect sense if there were few viable people out there to have a relationship with...then I could totally see it.)
I think Cornelius is a talented writer and I think she's got loads of great things to come. I wish this one had been THAT book for me, but it wasn't.
HOWEVER
I KNOW it'll be THAT book for someone else. It IS well-written and I think it just needs the right audience.
For that reason, I'm giving away my SIGNED copy. You want it, right?! Of course you do! To enter, just fill out the Rafflecopter form. Giveaway starts now, ends in a week, winner will be contacted and have 48 hrs to get back to me, blah blah blah. You know the drill, so go fill out the form!
http://www.emsreviewsbooks.com/2012/0...
From Goodreads: A deadly influenza virus rages out of control. There is no easy-fix vaccine. No eleventh-hour containment. Only death. With no workforce, power plants have been shut down, police and fire departments have collapsed, crops lie unpicked in the fields.
When Dr. Taeya Sanchez finds herself unceremoniously dismissed from an emergency medical facility in New York, she decides to steal the hospital's armored van for a midnight escape. Unfortunately, Rick DeAngelo, a driver for the hospital, has already stocked the van for his own getaway.
Thrown into an unfriendly alliance, these two must pick their way across the dangerous wasteland of America in search of a safe haven. And as the miles roll by, they discover that the living should be feared much more than the festering corpses out there.
Raging infections, death, the end of the world...pretty much that's what you get here. Not a pretty scenario, and I *really* hope it never comes to that, because I'm a wimp and I'd be one of the first to go.
I feel like there was a lot of potential here. I was intrigued by the Goodreads synopsis and eager to read. Sadly, I didn't love it. Don't get me wrong, I didn't hate it either. I just didn't ever really get to the point where I was sucked in and riveted. The characters never connected for me and I found their love story a little on the 'huh?' side. (of course, it could make perfect sense if there were few viable people out there to have a relationship with...then I could totally see it.)
I think Cornelius is a talented writer and I think she's got loads of great things to come. I wish this one had been THAT book for me, but it wasn't.
HOWEVER
I KNOW it'll be THAT book for someone else. It IS well-written and I think it just needs the right audience.
For that reason, I'm giving away my SIGNED copy. You want it, right?! Of course you do! To enter, just fill out the Rafflecopter form. Giveaway starts now, ends in a week, winner will be contacted and have 48 hrs to get back to me, blah blah blah. You know the drill, so go fill out the form!
http://www.emsreviewsbooks.com/2012/0...
February 12, 2012
I personally do not have a set genre that I will read book's from. I will admit that I like certain genre's more than others but I do not have a personal favorite. I will admit that this is book is in one of my favorite genre so the follow review may be a little bias if so please forgive me.
H10N1 starts out with Dr. Sanchez who is an epidemiologist. She has works with the CDC and World Health Organization. She is a doctor who has traveled the world when an outbreak of a disease has gone in to chaos. She use to have a husband that she would follow around but he was killed in one of the third world countries that they were trying to help.
Dr. Sanchez or Taeya is one of those people who does not like the people in authority that does not care about the underdog. She is one of those people who will stand up and fight authority figures. She sometimes let's her anger get the better of her in an argument. This time she has let that control her to where she has lost her position at an emergency facility in New York.
Taeya is introduced to Rick DeAngelo. Rick is one of those people that can aquire any item that is wanted. He looks a little sleazy and is constantly hitting on women.
Rick has a plan. He is determined to leave the area in New York and head to Arkansas where he has friends. Rick has everything all planned out. The van that is he planning on stealing where he has it packed with supplies and has removed the tracking device. The route planned out, food and supplies. What he does not take into account is Taeya tagging along with him.
Taeya makes a last minute decision to not only leave the hospital but to leave the area. She does not want to wait for the ceremony dismal from the head doctor she has pissed off. She get all of her personal belonging together and moves on to get supplies. She meets up with Rick in the garage and he has a soft moment and allows her to go with him.
Will Rick and Taeya hit is off? Will they fall in love? What happens with the virus? Is there other people still alive that did not get the virus? Read this wonderful book to find out for yourself.
The bunnies and I give this book 4 stars.
H10N1 starts out with Dr. Sanchez who is an epidemiologist. She has works with the CDC and World Health Organization. She is a doctor who has traveled the world when an outbreak of a disease has gone in to chaos. She use to have a husband that she would follow around but he was killed in one of the third world countries that they were trying to help.
Dr. Sanchez or Taeya is one of those people who does not like the people in authority that does not care about the underdog. She is one of those people who will stand up and fight authority figures. She sometimes let's her anger get the better of her in an argument. This time she has let that control her to where she has lost her position at an emergency facility in New York.
Taeya is introduced to Rick DeAngelo. Rick is one of those people that can aquire any item that is wanted. He looks a little sleazy and is constantly hitting on women.
Rick has a plan. He is determined to leave the area in New York and head to Arkansas where he has friends. Rick has everything all planned out. The van that is he planning on stealing where he has it packed with supplies and has removed the tracking device. The route planned out, food and supplies. What he does not take into account is Taeya tagging along with him.
Taeya makes a last minute decision to not only leave the hospital but to leave the area. She does not want to wait for the ceremony dismal from the head doctor she has pissed off. She get all of her personal belonging together and moves on to get supplies. She meets up with Rick in the garage and he has a soft moment and allows her to go with him.
Will Rick and Taeya hit is off? Will they fall in love? What happens with the virus? Is there other people still alive that did not get the virus? Read this wonderful book to find out for yourself.
The bunnies and I give this book 4 stars.
August 10, 2016
Spoilers: This was a well written fast paced book. I enjoyed the characters who were all well developed as well as the plot. I didn't quite believe the romance portion of it because the author spent too much time try to convince us how much Taeya and Rob hated each other and then all of a sudden they were in love...yeah, right. Besides that though, I was glad they ended up together and that he protected her. I loved that they went to pick up their hippie friends and lived in a biodome and their quest to find a sustainable place to live was definitely interesting. I couldnt exactly relate to this in a "what would I do" scenario since I could never picture myself having a bunch of friends who just happen to live on a self sustained farm or in a biodome but I still enjoyed the story of these characters who did.
This book definitely didn't go in the direction I assumed it would (i.e. - fighting a catastrophic viral outbreak or zombies or some sort) but it was a well written survival story with 3 dimensional characters, interesting dialogue and a plot that took me somewhere I didnt expect. I definitely couldn't put it down for hours at a time and would recommend it to anyone who likes the post apocolyptic genre.
This book definitely didn't go in the direction I assumed it would (i.e. - fighting a catastrophic viral outbreak or zombies or some sort) but it was a well written survival story with 3 dimensional characters, interesting dialogue and a plot that took me somewhere I didnt expect. I definitely couldn't put it down for hours at a time and would recommend it to anyone who likes the post apocolyptic genre.
October 29, 2012
From my Amazon review:
I had about a half dozen novels lurking in my Kindle, waiting for me to read. I opened them all and read the first few pages to get a sense of which would be a great read. When I got to H10N1 I found myself a dozen pages in before I even knew it. Done deal. This was the one.
There are quite a few post-apocalyptic novels out there, to be sure. Any number of these should be able to hold the interest of anyone into the genre. This book does a whole lot more than hold your interest. It grabs you by the undershorts, picks you up and says, "C'mon, Bubba. We're going for a ride."
I loved it.
The action was non-stop. Any breaks were well thought out breathers that built different but necessary story lines. I found myself cheering for Rick and Sanchez from the start. Their rocky and passionate relationship is an underlying current that only adds to the tension of the novel.
At first I wasn't sure about the Biosphere component but the author quickly proves its value and it was one of the most enjoyable sections of the book.
Grit, laced with humor and believable characters round out the completeness of this book. Highly readable and completely worth the download.
I had about a half dozen novels lurking in my Kindle, waiting for me to read. I opened them all and read the first few pages to get a sense of which would be a great read. When I got to H10N1 I found myself a dozen pages in before I even knew it. Done deal. This was the one.
There are quite a few post-apocalyptic novels out there, to be sure. Any number of these should be able to hold the interest of anyone into the genre. This book does a whole lot more than hold your interest. It grabs you by the undershorts, picks you up and says, "C'mon, Bubba. We're going for a ride."
I loved it.
The action was non-stop. Any breaks were well thought out breathers that built different but necessary story lines. I found myself cheering for Rick and Sanchez from the start. Their rocky and passionate relationship is an underlying current that only adds to the tension of the novel.
At first I wasn't sure about the Biosphere component but the author quickly proves its value and it was one of the most enjoyable sections of the book.
Grit, laced with humor and believable characters round out the completeness of this book. Highly readable and completely worth the download.
April 9, 2012
I love these types of stories. This one was no exception. It was a really interesting read, and was original enough that I didn't think at any point 'I've read this before!'
The author quite successfully takes the subject matter and makes it new and fresh. It was believable in the way it was written, and although we all hope that nothing like this will ever happen, we are all too ready to believe it might.
The characters are all very different people, and each had a unique back story. The discoveries made along the way in the book allowed each character to be more believable as the story progressed. Not all the characters were nice, or likable, which only added to the depth of the plot. The events and dangers that they faced through the course of the story were very well written and all too likely. At no point did I find myself thinking 'Oh, give me a break, that would never happen'.
A definite recommendation if you enjoy the genre!
The author quite successfully takes the subject matter and makes it new and fresh. It was believable in the way it was written, and although we all hope that nothing like this will ever happen, we are all too ready to believe it might.
The characters are all very different people, and each had a unique back story. The discoveries made along the way in the book allowed each character to be more believable as the story progressed. Not all the characters were nice, or likable, which only added to the depth of the plot. The events and dangers that they faced through the course of the story were very well written and all too likely. At no point did I find myself thinking 'Oh, give me a break, that would never happen'.
A definite recommendation if you enjoy the genre!
May 31, 2012
In H10N1, synthetic plagues rip the world apart, resulting in the hopeless, gradual implosion of America. As the nation collapses and the elites bunker down in well-stocked medical facilities, a female epidemiologist who loses her job connects with a “guy who get things done” type who has his own plans for riding things out. The result is an unlikely collaboration and road trip across what’s left of America, fighting bandits and crazies in an effort to find a safe place. The guy who gets things done starts off pretty darn unlikable, and later in the book the interaction between some of the characters is sometimes excessively cute, but these were minor quibbles for me. This is a solid effort by a good writer–a nuanced vision of America dying of plague and a strong character-driven story, more thoughtful than your usual apocalyptic fare. I liked it.
October 19, 2013
Adventure, mystery, romance, action -- this novel has it all! While I'm not normally a fan of post-apocalyptic stories, this one is so well written that I couldn't put it down. From a bureaucratic nightmare of "kill everyone, even if they aren't infected with the bio-weapon's virus" in New York to a dangerous and nearly deadly trek cross country to California, Dr. Sanchez and her small band of survivors learn the truth about humanity and what people will do in order to survive. H10N1 makes the reader realistically consider the possible effects of world-wide bio-terrorism. It's not a pretty picture, but this novel is a fascinating piece of science fiction and a great read!
January 31, 2012
Well this was definitely an EOTWAWKI story with an interesting twist. The Biosphere. Now that was a blast from the past (future?) This was a believable premise and not, for some reason, anywhere near as dreary as most post-apocalyptic novels are. I wanted it to last longer, to cover a few years into the future at least. I liked the characters for the most part. Yep, some of it was cliched, but the story worked for me. I also would've liked a blow-by-blow of the disaster, but there was enough to keep me plenty satisfied.
December 20, 2011
A refreshing take on the virus that takes over the world. This is M.R. Cornelius first book and I am hoping not her last. I am a fan
July 13, 2012
Very good !,and free download to kindle from Amazon ,bargain !!!
July 16, 2012
I really liked this book. These always scare me though and put me in survival mode trying to get myself ready were something to really happen like this.
January 21, 2013
Very enjoyable book, moves right along which I like. Stayed up til 1am to finish it and it was worth it. This was my first time reading this author, now I'll have to see what else is out there.
March 22, 2022
This book is rather disappointing. I usually really like pandemic/apocalyptic stories and the prologue had me believing this was going to be a good one. Wrong. Truth is this book isn’t about a pandemic, not really. By the time this story takes place the pandemic has ended and it’s just people being terrible and selfish.
The plot feels a bit all over the place at times. It feels as if the author tried to cram too many genres together all at once.
The two main characters are even remotely likable. They’re both insanely judgmental. I mean, was it really necessary to include their near constant negative thoughts about other people’s appearances?
The plot feels a bit all over the place at times. It feels as if the author tried to cram too many genres together all at once.
The two main characters are even remotely likable. They’re both insanely judgmental. I mean, was it really necessary to include their near constant negative thoughts about other people’s appearances?
January 13, 2025
It gets a little racial throughout as well as it seems to skip some of the information you need to know to move the story over. I kept going back pages thinking I missed something. The first few chapters was ok, but once they got pass the ambush on highway it gott worse.
April 7, 2013
The following review is my opinion and not a paid review. I first purchased a copy of H10N1 from Amazon with my husband's account before having an account of my own. After getting my own account with Amazon I downloaded it from Amazon as a free download.
Dr. Taeya Sanchez works for the CDC and when the flu virus H10N1 started spreading all across the world. The virus is believed to have started in North Korea. Taeya while working for the CDC has been stationed at a New York hospital the only one still in operation. Her job is to sort out the patients that may or may not survive. Taeya goes head to head with her boss because of what he says is best for the patients that Taeya doesn't agree with. When she is dismiss from her duties she knows it is a matter before she is fired. She is no mood to wait for that confrontation much less the consequences. So she decides to pack her bags and as they say "get the hell out of dodge". She has a friend who lives in an experimental bio dome in Arizona. Her friend is a member of a scientific team who all live in the dome trying to stay alive.
Taeya never expects to run into anyone when she makes her escape at midnight but she runs into a guy, Rick DeAngelo who drives a truck for the hospital looking for supplies and whatever else you make need. Rick has been planning his trip for a while now gathering up all the supplies he will need for his trip across country to his friends place in Arkansas who live off the land. Rick and Taeya are not happy at all about their meeting under the circumstances. But Rick can't bring himself to leave her to her own defenses knowing what he does about the people who are in charge at the hospital. He knows they will track her down and bring her back.
Rick and Taeya make their journey across the country not fighting zombies as with most apocalyptic novels but they do have to fight the ones who are still alive. Fighting for their own lives in some cases as well as fighting for their supplies and weapons. Rick and Taeya for the most part are usually bickering back and forth among themselves. They each have their own things in their past that they each have to deal with in their own way. But they each have to lean on the other one to stay alive. In a world where you don't know who you can trust you still have to have someone who will cover your back for you.
I absolutely enjoyed reading H10N1 it is an amazing novel about the apocalyptic. I loved reading that world ended with a virus and not a zombie outbreak. Now don't get me wrong I still love me some zombies but H10N1 was a refreshing breath taker that keeps you turning those pages as fast as possible. I loved the bio dome and all their experiments and that each person had their own job or part that they had to do to help out and earn their way.
While I am pretty sure the world would not end with zombies but is possible. I do believe that the world could end with a flu virus or any type of virus as bio weapon or just as an outbreak weather by accident or not. If the world did end with a virus then I think that there would be looters and thieves whom we would have to defend ourselves from just as M.R. Cornelius has written it in H10N1.
If you have not read H10N1 then I highly suggest that you do that is if you like reading apocalyptic books. Well even if you don't and have been considering it then H10N1 would be a great book to start with. I know M.R. Cornelius has thoroughly did her research on viruses among other things in writing H10N1 and who knows you may just learn something while reading a great book.
Dr. Taeya Sanchez works for the CDC and when the flu virus H10N1 started spreading all across the world. The virus is believed to have started in North Korea. Taeya while working for the CDC has been stationed at a New York hospital the only one still in operation. Her job is to sort out the patients that may or may not survive. Taeya goes head to head with her boss because of what he says is best for the patients that Taeya doesn't agree with. When she is dismiss from her duties she knows it is a matter before she is fired. She is no mood to wait for that confrontation much less the consequences. So she decides to pack her bags and as they say "get the hell out of dodge". She has a friend who lives in an experimental bio dome in Arizona. Her friend is a member of a scientific team who all live in the dome trying to stay alive.
Taeya never expects to run into anyone when she makes her escape at midnight but she runs into a guy, Rick DeAngelo who drives a truck for the hospital looking for supplies and whatever else you make need. Rick has been planning his trip for a while now gathering up all the supplies he will need for his trip across country to his friends place in Arkansas who live off the land. Rick and Taeya are not happy at all about their meeting under the circumstances. But Rick can't bring himself to leave her to her own defenses knowing what he does about the people who are in charge at the hospital. He knows they will track her down and bring her back.
Rick and Taeya make their journey across the country not fighting zombies as with most apocalyptic novels but they do have to fight the ones who are still alive. Fighting for their own lives in some cases as well as fighting for their supplies and weapons. Rick and Taeya for the most part are usually bickering back and forth among themselves. They each have their own things in their past that they each have to deal with in their own way. But they each have to lean on the other one to stay alive. In a world where you don't know who you can trust you still have to have someone who will cover your back for you.
I absolutely enjoyed reading H10N1 it is an amazing novel about the apocalyptic. I loved reading that world ended with a virus and not a zombie outbreak. Now don't get me wrong I still love me some zombies but H10N1 was a refreshing breath taker that keeps you turning those pages as fast as possible. I loved the bio dome and all their experiments and that each person had their own job or part that they had to do to help out and earn their way.
While I am pretty sure the world would not end with zombies but is possible. I do believe that the world could end with a flu virus or any type of virus as bio weapon or just as an outbreak weather by accident or not. If the world did end with a virus then I think that there would be looters and thieves whom we would have to defend ourselves from just as M.R. Cornelius has written it in H10N1.
If you have not read H10N1 then I highly suggest that you do that is if you like reading apocalyptic books. Well even if you don't and have been considering it then H10N1 would be a great book to start with. I know M.R. Cornelius has thoroughly did her research on viruses among other things in writing H10N1 and who knows you may just learn something while reading a great book.
August 7, 2013
A deadly flu virus is ravaging the world, leaving nothing but dead bodies in its wake. Dr. Taeya Sanchez has been working tirelessly to save those not infected. When she is dismissed from her position at an emergency facility in New York she decides to escape the city and humiliation in the dead of night. Unfortunately Rick, a driver for the same emergency facility shows up and ruins her plan. They don't trust each other, and they don't like each other, but they decide there is safety in numbers and band together for their escape. But just until they can make it alone.
They both have destinations in mind and it will take both of them to get either one of them there alive.
Reading H10 N1 is a lot like watching a Resident Evil movie. Okay so there aren't zombies at every corner, but there is a new strain of the virus and it ain't pretty. And as you read through the story you will find yourself lying in wait for something to come crawling out of the dark. If this were a movie, it would definitely have the creep factor and even the jump factor. You know what I'm talking about. Those moments in a movie that creep up on you and make you jump even though you know their coming. Yup, H10 N1 is a lot like that. You know these moments are coming, heck you even expect them, you want them, but when they do, you can't help but be taken by surprise. M.R. Cornelius does a great job describing the scene really adding to that creep factor.
As Dr. Sanchez and Rick make their way across the wastelands of America they face many obstacles. From transportation issues, to rogue survivors, to zombie-ish people, to their own emotions and each other; but with each other they seem to pull through. With Dr. Sanchez's experience, skills and abilities she is an asset that no one can turn away. And Rick is great at flat out survival. If it is a matter of surviving you can pretty much bet he can do it, or figure out a way to do it. I truly enjoyed both of these characters. Dr. Sanchez is a confident, independent woman who isn't afraid to look trouble in the eye. While Rick is a self assured jerk, who only looks out for number 1-himself. Both are flawed, have emotional baggage and carry chips on their shoulders that make them round about characters that are easy to like and cheer for. They both have their idea of where 'safe' is, only they discover that what may appear as safe, may not actually stay that way. In their safe haven troubles brew, lives are lost and strength is tested.
There is not a whole lot I can say about H10 N1 without giving this story away, but I can tell you that H10 N1 is a great look at a post apocalyptic world. With the flu virus killing off a majority of the population, this is a chance for the human race to become better, to change their ways and truly become a superior race. But will they heed the call? Will they choose to change or will the beginning of a new life, just be the beginning of the end? H10 N1 is a fun read that will keep you on your toes. Keep your nails short (nail biting) and make you laugh and it is a great addition to any apocalypse survival shelf!
They both have destinations in mind and it will take both of them to get either one of them there alive.
Reading H10 N1 is a lot like watching a Resident Evil movie. Okay so there aren't zombies at every corner, but there is a new strain of the virus and it ain't pretty. And as you read through the story you will find yourself lying in wait for something to come crawling out of the dark. If this were a movie, it would definitely have the creep factor and even the jump factor. You know what I'm talking about. Those moments in a movie that creep up on you and make you jump even though you know their coming. Yup, H10 N1 is a lot like that. You know these moments are coming, heck you even expect them, you want them, but when they do, you can't help but be taken by surprise. M.R. Cornelius does a great job describing the scene really adding to that creep factor.
As Dr. Sanchez and Rick make their way across the wastelands of America they face many obstacles. From transportation issues, to rogue survivors, to zombie-ish people, to their own emotions and each other; but with each other they seem to pull through. With Dr. Sanchez's experience, skills and abilities she is an asset that no one can turn away. And Rick is great at flat out survival. If it is a matter of surviving you can pretty much bet he can do it, or figure out a way to do it. I truly enjoyed both of these characters. Dr. Sanchez is a confident, independent woman who isn't afraid to look trouble in the eye. While Rick is a self assured jerk, who only looks out for number 1-himself. Both are flawed, have emotional baggage and carry chips on their shoulders that make them round about characters that are easy to like and cheer for. They both have their idea of where 'safe' is, only they discover that what may appear as safe, may not actually stay that way. In their safe haven troubles brew, lives are lost and strength is tested.
There is not a whole lot I can say about H10 N1 without giving this story away, but I can tell you that H10 N1 is a great look at a post apocalyptic world. With the flu virus killing off a majority of the population, this is a chance for the human race to become better, to change their ways and truly become a superior race. But will they heed the call? Will they choose to change or will the beginning of a new life, just be the beginning of the end? H10 N1 is a fun read that will keep you on your toes. Keep your nails short (nail biting) and make you laugh and it is a great addition to any apocalypse survival shelf!
February 20, 2012
When Dr. Taeya Sanchez mouths off a few too many times to her boss, she knows she is getting ready to be fired. Unfortunately, the entire population is infected with a deadly virus and she doesn't have very many options. Just one, actually. Fill up a stolen truck with as many supplies and food as she can get and hope to make it somewhere safe before either getting caught, killed or catching the disease herself. The only problem with her plan? She is now stuck road tripping with the ego-maniac Rick DeAngelo, another hospital worker set on escaping while he still can.
H10 N1 is almost like an adult oriented dystopian novel, my favorite! We pick up the story after the virus has spread everywhere and we learn bits and pieces about it as we go. People are dying off like crazy, either they have contracted the virus or they are so scared they are killing themselves before it gets to that point. I knew as soon as I read the prologue that I was going to like this book. It starts off with a suicide assistance hot line and we go along as a caller discusses her husband's suicide with the hot line worker. At first, I thought she was calling to stop herself from committing suicide herself. Nope. I think my husband must have thought I'd lost it because I was talking to the book as the worker talked this lady into poisoning herself. I didn't see that coming. I knew right there that this was going to be a fun read.
I really enjoyed getting to know Taeya and Rick, and I loved their banter. When we first meet Taeya, she kind of comes off as snotty or stuck up. I'll admit that I didn't like her at first. Rick, on the other hand, I didn't mind as much even though he was clearly high on himself. Once the two were thrown together and had to actually communicate, I saw that neither of them were what I first thought them to be and I truly did connect with them. We get to hear from both Taeya and Rick, each of their parts told in alternating chapters which I love. I find it adds to a story when we get to hear from the main characters involved.
The only issue I had, and it is purely only my opinion, was some of the language. I don't think you will find any words in this book that you wouldn't find in maybe a romance novel, but I am very uncomfortable in my own skin and certain talk just turns me off. Again, this is my own opinion and honestly, I've been called a prude more than once so don't go by my opinion alone. There actually isn't a lot of this language, I think I just pick up on it because I'm not used to it.
Anyway, if you love a good thriller or are a fan of dystopian, give this one a look. The writing is solid, the characters are raw and honest and find themselves in some pretty intense situations that are sure to keep you turning the pages.
H10 N1 is almost like an adult oriented dystopian novel, my favorite! We pick up the story after the virus has spread everywhere and we learn bits and pieces about it as we go. People are dying off like crazy, either they have contracted the virus or they are so scared they are killing themselves before it gets to that point. I knew as soon as I read the prologue that I was going to like this book. It starts off with a suicide assistance hot line and we go along as a caller discusses her husband's suicide with the hot line worker. At first, I thought she was calling to stop herself from committing suicide herself. Nope. I think my husband must have thought I'd lost it because I was talking to the book as the worker talked this lady into poisoning herself. I didn't see that coming. I knew right there that this was going to be a fun read.
I really enjoyed getting to know Taeya and Rick, and I loved their banter. When we first meet Taeya, she kind of comes off as snotty or stuck up. I'll admit that I didn't like her at first. Rick, on the other hand, I didn't mind as much even though he was clearly high on himself. Once the two were thrown together and had to actually communicate, I saw that neither of them were what I first thought them to be and I truly did connect with them. We get to hear from both Taeya and Rick, each of their parts told in alternating chapters which I love. I find it adds to a story when we get to hear from the main characters involved.
The only issue I had, and it is purely only my opinion, was some of the language. I don't think you will find any words in this book that you wouldn't find in maybe a romance novel, but I am very uncomfortable in my own skin and certain talk just turns me off. Again, this is my own opinion and honestly, I've been called a prude more than once so don't go by my opinion alone. There actually isn't a lot of this language, I think I just pick up on it because I'm not used to it.
Anyway, if you love a good thriller or are a fan of dystopian, give this one a look. The writing is solid, the characters are raw and honest and find themselves in some pretty intense situations that are sure to keep you turning the pages.
October 11, 2011
What would you do if the world as you have known it no longer exists due to a devastating worldwide pandemic? What if you were among the survivors, and there is nothing but chaos, mayhem and uncertainty left? How would you pick up the pieces and survive in the unknown? These are the questions and circumstances that Dr. Taeya Sanchez and Rick DeAngelo found themselves in H10N1.
A Korean Flu has been intentionally spread among the world's biggest cities ... a pandemic catastrophe that has decimated millions of people worldwide .... and now only packs of survivors remain in a virtual wasteland that used to be thriving cities. For Dr. Taeya Sanchez and Rick DeAngelo, the hospital they work at is no longer their choice of a safe haven from the chaos, mayhem and uncertainty that lies outside its protective walls. Both have their own agenda of where they want to go to start over, neither like each other very much, but they band together to leave the ruins of New York for the west coast. Along the way they learn to adapt to each other's personalities, and help each other to survive when other packs of survivors try to take over their van. How they make out on their journey to survive and create a new life together will have you sitting on the edge of your seat.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading H10N1! The storyline was very well written, and the characters are so engaging and compelling, that you feel like you can actually step into the story and go along with them on their journey. For anyone who is interested in the world's super powers and their possible secret biological chemical warfare capabilities, this book will have you wondering if this devastating catastrophe could possibly happen. H10N1 is a gripping post-apocalyptic thriller that will have you so engrossed in its riveting action, that it won't let you go until you have read the very last word.
RATING: 4 STARS ****
Disclaimer: At the request of the author, a Kindle edition of this book was sent, at no cost to me, for my honest review.
Virtual Book Tour Event: On Tuesday, October 11, 2011, M.R. Cornelius participated in a virtual book tour event with an Author Guest Post on Jersey Girl Book Reviews.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
A Korean Flu has been intentionally spread among the world's biggest cities ... a pandemic catastrophe that has decimated millions of people worldwide .... and now only packs of survivors remain in a virtual wasteland that used to be thriving cities. For Dr. Taeya Sanchez and Rick DeAngelo, the hospital they work at is no longer their choice of a safe haven from the chaos, mayhem and uncertainty that lies outside its protective walls. Both have their own agenda of where they want to go to start over, neither like each other very much, but they band together to leave the ruins of New York for the west coast. Along the way they learn to adapt to each other's personalities, and help each other to survive when other packs of survivors try to take over their van. How they make out on their journey to survive and create a new life together will have you sitting on the edge of your seat.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading H10N1! The storyline was very well written, and the characters are so engaging and compelling, that you feel like you can actually step into the story and go along with them on their journey. For anyone who is interested in the world's super powers and their possible secret biological chemical warfare capabilities, this book will have you wondering if this devastating catastrophe could possibly happen. H10N1 is a gripping post-apocalyptic thriller that will have you so engrossed in its riveting action, that it won't let you go until you have read the very last word.
RATING: 4 STARS ****
Disclaimer: At the request of the author, a Kindle edition of this book was sent, at no cost to me, for my honest review.
Virtual Book Tour Event: On Tuesday, October 11, 2011, M.R. Cornelius participated in a virtual book tour event with an Author Guest Post on Jersey Girl Book Reviews.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
August 28, 2012
(No Major Spoilers) I caught this book while it was free on Amazon.com through pixel of ink. I’m really into end of the world apocalyptic thrillers (No, I’m not a doomsday prepper!) so I downloaded it ASAP after reading the summary.
The novel follows Taeya Sanchez, a hot headed soon to be fired doctor stationed at a NYC hospital a few months after the initial virus outbreak. Instead of waiting around to be dismissed after a blowup with her supervisor over ethics, Taeya decides to steal one of the hospital’s armored vans, some supplies, + take off to Arizona to reunite with her best friend, Mai. There’s one problem: Rick DeAngelo, the hospital’s good looking but arrogant driver who’s already stocked up the same van for a late night getaway of his own. With no time for arguing, the two form an unlikely (and unwanted) alliance.
I will say the first half of this book was amazing. The story was really engaging, with tons of details, action, + suspense. Another plus was the character development. It was spot on. I loved the back + forth between Rick & Taeya + how they begrudgingly began to rely on one another.
The second half of “H10N1” was less about the virus + more about the relationship between Taeya + Rick, which was really predictable for me. I don’t mind a romantic element to any novel but the virus plot line took a back seat after their relationship “heated” up. I honestly don’t think there was a need for romantic tension so soon in the story. Having it toward the end would have been more effective.
For me, many questions were left unanswered + the events (and “showdown”) in Arizona could have been written to be more exciting. There was no real build up. Secondary character development was not that great with the exception of Devin & Judith. Finally, the book’s ending was a little too cliche for me. I love a happy ending but not THIS happy in a virus outbreak novel, lol.
Overall, “H10N1” is a really great story about how we as humans sometimes react + adapt when our survival is at stake. Some of us work together, while other’s think only of themselves + become more dangerous than the problem at hand. The book is less than $3 on Amazon (free if you own a PRIME subscription). Read it. I’m looking forward to seeing what else M.R. Cornelius has to offer.
The novel follows Taeya Sanchez, a hot headed soon to be fired doctor stationed at a NYC hospital a few months after the initial virus outbreak. Instead of waiting around to be dismissed after a blowup with her supervisor over ethics, Taeya decides to steal one of the hospital’s armored vans, some supplies, + take off to Arizona to reunite with her best friend, Mai. There’s one problem: Rick DeAngelo, the hospital’s good looking but arrogant driver who’s already stocked up the same van for a late night getaway of his own. With no time for arguing, the two form an unlikely (and unwanted) alliance.
I will say the first half of this book was amazing. The story was really engaging, with tons of details, action, + suspense. Another plus was the character development. It was spot on. I loved the back + forth between Rick & Taeya + how they begrudgingly began to rely on one another.
The second half of “H10N1” was less about the virus + more about the relationship between Taeya + Rick, which was really predictable for me. I don’t mind a romantic element to any novel but the virus plot line took a back seat after their relationship “heated” up. I honestly don’t think there was a need for romantic tension so soon in the story. Having it toward the end would have been more effective.
For me, many questions were left unanswered + the events (and “showdown”) in Arizona could have been written to be more exciting. There was no real build up. Secondary character development was not that great with the exception of Devin & Judith. Finally, the book’s ending was a little too cliche for me. I love a happy ending but not THIS happy in a virus outbreak novel, lol.
Overall, “H10N1” is a really great story about how we as humans sometimes react + adapt when our survival is at stake. Some of us work together, while other’s think only of themselves + become more dangerous than the problem at hand. The book is less than $3 on Amazon (free if you own a PRIME subscription). Read it. I’m looking forward to seeing what else M.R. Cornelius has to offer.
January 16, 2014
I really enjoyed reading this book. I had a hard time putting it down, and when I was almost finished I couldn't!!! I was up till 2:00 a.m. because I had to see how it was going to end. I LOVE it when a book does that for me. I usually can't put them down because I want to see who falls in love, but in this case I had to see who lives, and how it will end. It was great.
The whole premise behind this book is absolutely terrifying for me. I love to read scary stories, just like I love to watch scary movies, BUT, when it is about something that could actually happen it's just plain scary.
There are some great characters in this book. Taeya Sanchez and Rick DeAngelo are my favorite, and have an interesting relationship. When they first start out on their journey to find a safe haven, they were not very nice to each other. It was actually kind of entertaining. Rick trying to prove what hot shot he was, and Sanchez trying to prove how smart she was all the time. Their relationship grows, and it is fun to read and see where it goes. Even in the midst of so much trauma.
Dr. Sanchez has a friend that works in the Biosphere in Arizona and she decides that is where she needs to go to help find a way to conquer the pandemic. In their travels to Arizona Rick convinces Sanchez to meet his friends Judith and Devin first. They are a couple who lives off the land and provide for themselves. They are such a great couple. All four of them take their knowledge with them to Arizona and to Sanchez's friend Mai. Judith helps bring the gardens back to life and the Biosphere back to working order before moving on.
If you are a germaphobe like me beware :). This book will work on those fears. I am blown away by the fact that when faced with the world wide pandemic people fight, instead of coming together. What is wrong with people? The world is coming to an end, and everyone seems to think that fighting, and killing is the best thing to do. How is that ever the best thing to do. But, it makes for a great story.
This book just good. It is well written. It's exciting, scary, creepy, and even humorous in spots. I really enjoyed it.
Now, and FYI, there is the f-bomb quite a few times in this book, and some sex, but it's not descriptive. I think it's an adult book, but it was really a great book.
The whole premise behind this book is absolutely terrifying for me. I love to read scary stories, just like I love to watch scary movies, BUT, when it is about something that could actually happen it's just plain scary.
There are some great characters in this book. Taeya Sanchez and Rick DeAngelo are my favorite, and have an interesting relationship. When they first start out on their journey to find a safe haven, they were not very nice to each other. It was actually kind of entertaining. Rick trying to prove what hot shot he was, and Sanchez trying to prove how smart she was all the time. Their relationship grows, and it is fun to read and see where it goes. Even in the midst of so much trauma.
Dr. Sanchez has a friend that works in the Biosphere in Arizona and she decides that is where she needs to go to help find a way to conquer the pandemic. In their travels to Arizona Rick convinces Sanchez to meet his friends Judith and Devin first. They are a couple who lives off the land and provide for themselves. They are such a great couple. All four of them take their knowledge with them to Arizona and to Sanchez's friend Mai. Judith helps bring the gardens back to life and the Biosphere back to working order before moving on.
If you are a germaphobe like me beware :). This book will work on those fears. I am blown away by the fact that when faced with the world wide pandemic people fight, instead of coming together. What is wrong with people? The world is coming to an end, and everyone seems to think that fighting, and killing is the best thing to do. How is that ever the best thing to do. But, it makes for a great story.
This book just good. It is well written. It's exciting, scary, creepy, and even humorous in spots. I really enjoyed it.
Now, and FYI, there is the f-bomb quite a few times in this book, and some sex, but it's not descriptive. I think it's an adult book, but it was really a great book.
December 3, 2011
An engineered flu virus was released in world population centers. Within days, the infected have traveled the globe and spread the disease, causing civilization to collapse.
In a few government sponsored medical facilities, the uninfected live under siege, trying to weed out the healthy and ease the infected into death. With a protected existence at a premium, it is not the time to anger those in charge. And yet, Dr. Taeya Sanchez does. And she must run to a new refuge with a surprising partner.
The very first scene of this book takes place at the office of a suicide help-line; but it's not any suicide help-line we're used to, and it immediately sets the tone for the role of the government in this flu pandemic. The first scene was so masterful I actually clapped my hands in glee after reading it.
The book progresses well, with realistic depictions of the lawlessness that would follow a societal meltdown. Survivors desperately need somewhere safe, but have no idea where that could be. The world is not affected equally by the pandemic, but those places that haven't been overrun by the virus are not portrayed as shining citadels. They are also affected by the worldwide shortages.
Characters are well drawn out, although I found myself dismissing the character of Rick as vapid and irritating. That could be due to my own personality, or maybe he really was meant to be vapid and irritating. He could also be tremendously misunderstood. By me, of course. Whatever. I didn't like him.
I loved the characters of Judith and Devin, and the introduction of the biosphere and the story line surrounding it. The retraining of a teenager was also a great moment in the book, but that could have something to do with the fact that I currently have two teenagers.
I tended to skim the flirting and sex scenes, but once again, that's a personal preference. I always do that, as reading them makes me feel uncomfortably like a Peeping Tom.
I wavered between a 3.5 and 4 star rating on this one, but in the end - the first scene was really so good that I decided it pushed the book into the four star category.
In a few government sponsored medical facilities, the uninfected live under siege, trying to weed out the healthy and ease the infected into death. With a protected existence at a premium, it is not the time to anger those in charge. And yet, Dr. Taeya Sanchez does. And she must run to a new refuge with a surprising partner.
The very first scene of this book takes place at the office of a suicide help-line; but it's not any suicide help-line we're used to, and it immediately sets the tone for the role of the government in this flu pandemic. The first scene was so masterful I actually clapped my hands in glee after reading it.
The book progresses well, with realistic depictions of the lawlessness that would follow a societal meltdown. Survivors desperately need somewhere safe, but have no idea where that could be. The world is not affected equally by the pandemic, but those places that haven't been overrun by the virus are not portrayed as shining citadels. They are also affected by the worldwide shortages.
Characters are well drawn out, although I found myself dismissing the character of Rick as vapid and irritating. That could be due to my own personality, or maybe he really was meant to be vapid and irritating. He could also be tremendously misunderstood. By me, of course. Whatever. I didn't like him.
I loved the characters of Judith and Devin, and the introduction of the biosphere and the story line surrounding it. The retraining of a teenager was also a great moment in the book, but that could have something to do with the fact that I currently have two teenagers.
I tended to skim the flirting and sex scenes, but once again, that's a personal preference. I always do that, as reading them makes me feel uncomfortably like a Peeping Tom.
I wavered between a 3.5 and 4 star rating on this one, but in the end - the first scene was really so good that I decided it pushed the book into the four star category.
July 27, 2012
M. R. Cornelius’ H10N1 follows the theme of the end of the world by introducing a new strain of influenza. Unlike other books and movies, the virus isn’t released by a curious teen or an accident at a government facility. Instead, the threat of terrorism and the global access open to anyone, puts the light on North Korea and al Qaeda as being responsible for spreading the deadly new strain across the world.
The story begins in New York, where we’re introduced to Taeya Sanchez, an epidemiologist trying to do her best to find her way in a world in chaos. Outside the windows of the secured hospital where the government has taken in the ill, she watches the buildings burn as looters take anything they can carry. Upset at what’s happened and fearful at what the future for humanity holds, Taeya decides to steal a government vehicle and head to Las Vegas where her friend lives in a biodome.
He plans are thwarted by a scruffy looking and foul tempered delivery driver named Rick DeAngelo as he has his own plans on escape. Bound together by fear and need to have another human near, the pair set off together to brave the roads and roving bands of thieves and gangs. During their journey they begin the process of understanding each other and form a bond seen in those depending on others to watch their backs.
One of the underlying themes in end of the world stories are how fast the established systems collapse when the every man for himself mentality takes over. In many ways, facing such a future is terrifying to each of us. How will we survive? What will we eat? In a society where most of us don’t know how to hunt or farm this can be truly terrifying.
Most genre’s have a typical story pattern that usually doesn’t change. In the case with H10N1, the author took those cliches and made them enjoyable with the new twist on what caused the collapse of most of the world’s governments. By avoiding a clash between higher powers we don’t see and rarely understand, M. R. Cornelius kept the story grounded by putting the fate of the people in their own hands. All of those make this a must read for apocalyptic and horror fans.
The story begins in New York, where we’re introduced to Taeya Sanchez, an epidemiologist trying to do her best to find her way in a world in chaos. Outside the windows of the secured hospital where the government has taken in the ill, she watches the buildings burn as looters take anything they can carry. Upset at what’s happened and fearful at what the future for humanity holds, Taeya decides to steal a government vehicle and head to Las Vegas where her friend lives in a biodome.
He plans are thwarted by a scruffy looking and foul tempered delivery driver named Rick DeAngelo as he has his own plans on escape. Bound together by fear and need to have another human near, the pair set off together to brave the roads and roving bands of thieves and gangs. During their journey they begin the process of understanding each other and form a bond seen in those depending on others to watch their backs.
One of the underlying themes in end of the world stories are how fast the established systems collapse when the every man for himself mentality takes over. In many ways, facing such a future is terrifying to each of us. How will we survive? What will we eat? In a society where most of us don’t know how to hunt or farm this can be truly terrifying.
Most genre’s have a typical story pattern that usually doesn’t change. In the case with H10N1, the author took those cliches and made them enjoyable with the new twist on what caused the collapse of most of the world’s governments. By avoiding a clash between higher powers we don’t see and rarely understand, M. R. Cornelius kept the story grounded by putting the fate of the people in their own hands. All of those make this a must read for apocalyptic and horror fans.
April 4, 2012
Dr. Taeya Sanchez doesn't think much of Rick DeAngelo at first. In fact he disgusts her. While she is working her ass off to continue to provide treatment to the ill rather than just pass out suicide pills in the only hospital operating in NYC, one of the last on the East Coast, he thinks he's above the rest. He doesn't bother to wear his uniform and he gets away with it, too, being the best the hospital has to scour the broken city and beyond for supplies in the throes of the worst virus America has ever seen. The New York Public Library has burned, other buildings, too. People die waiting in the long line outside of the hospital. Mobs loot and kill, burn what is left, while the rich hoard food and lock themselves inside their apartments. And he has the audacity to stare at her tits and insinuate that she's part of a massive conspiracy to allow the masses to die off.
She's going to need him though. Her husband, now passed away, always said she had a big mouth. In her efforts to speak against the Hospital Director's idea of "treating the sick" i.e. ending their pain, she gets herself in bigg trouble and needs a way out of the city. Guess who helps? Landing in a van together is certainly not what either of them would have planned.
I was really amazed by the research that went into this book. I'm not a doctor but I was impressed by Taeya's medical point of view. She treats patients along her journey and explains the biological virus Korea has spread around the world. Incredible also were survival skills residents displayed after the electricity, water, and reliable food supplies ended.
This book has action, adventure, guns, wounds, science, fiction, a journey around the states, homebrew that'll knock your socks off, a sack full of weed for trade and even a Biodome. I gave this a 4.5 for being nearly perfect.
Received book free as Reviewer for Women's Literary Cafe
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