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Babysitter of the Apocalypse: We Don't Sacrifice Kids to Zombies
In a world overrun by the undead, with no experience in parenthood and an empty past that haunts her every step, Vicki is the last person you'd expect to be a caregiver. A borderline alcoholic struggling to keep her own demons at bay, she's suddenly thrust into the role of protector for two young children.
But just as they think they can take a breath and relax, tragedy strikes, leaving Vicki and the kids alone with a mysterious newcomer. Desperate for safety and a sense of belonging, they join forces, forming a fragile survival group.
As the days turn into weeks and the bond between Vicki and the children deepens, she discovers that she may need them as much as they need her. Together, they navigate a world where the line between life and death is blurred, finding hope and humanity in the most unexpected places.
Yet, the zombies are not their only threat.
In this gripping tale of survival, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bonds forged in the face of unimaginable adversity, Vicki and her makeshift family will stop at nothing to find safety, no matter the odds. Babysitter of the Apocalypse, Book 1 is a heart-pounding thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.
But just as they think they can take a breath and relax, tragedy strikes, leaving Vicki and the kids alone with a mysterious newcomer. Desperate for safety and a sense of belonging, they join forces, forming a fragile survival group.
As the days turn into weeks and the bond between Vicki and the children deepens, she discovers that she may need them as much as they need her. Together, they navigate a world where the line between life and death is blurred, finding hope and humanity in the most unexpected places.
Yet, the zombies are not their only threat.
In this gripping tale of survival, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bonds forged in the face of unimaginable adversity, Vicki and her makeshift family will stop at nothing to find safety, no matter the odds. Babysitter of the Apocalypse, Book 1 is a heart-pounding thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 27, 2023
457 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
About the author
Courtney Konstantin
20 books293 followersAs a child, Courtney always had aspirations of being a writer. She participated in journalism in school. At home, she wrote short stories, poetry and filled diary pages. Somewhere along the line becoming an adult took priority over her writing and she went to work in business operations.
Now as a mother to three beautiful children, she tells them all the time to follow their dreams, be whatever they want. Those lessons reminded her how much she loved writing. She finally opened the door to making writing a real priority in her life.
Living outside of Portland, Oregon she loves the green and beauty Oregon offers. When she’s not matching wits with her children, her crazy Siberian Husky or her bi-polar cats, she enjoys binge reading, hikes and touring wineries. Courtney and her husband, the love of her life, enjoy traveling the world whenever they can get a free moment. And cruises….she loves cruising. She’s especially fond of life, laughter and sarcasm – and she’s excited to share all of that and more with her readers!
Now as a mother to three beautiful children, she tells them all the time to follow their dreams, be whatever they want. Those lessons reminded her how much she loved writing. She finally opened the door to making writing a real priority in her life.
Living outside of Portland, Oregon she loves the green and beauty Oregon offers. When she’s not matching wits with her children, her crazy Siberian Husky or her bi-polar cats, she enjoys binge reading, hikes and touring wineries. Courtney and her husband, the love of her life, enjoy traveling the world whenever they can get a free moment. And cruises….she loves cruising. She’s especially fond of life, laughter and sarcasm – and she’s excited to share all of that and more with her readers!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
April 21, 2025
I can only read romance books now and then before I’m thrown back into this genre, romance books tend to bore me lately, same goes for romance movies, I need my adrenaline to spike upwards and keep me focused and this author seems to cater to my needs every time I’ve reached a funk.
I crave that adrenaline rush
The chaos and desperation
It’s not just about the zombies that has me reading this genre, it’s that survival aspect, the pilfering, the hiding from human threats, combine all of the above and this author ticks all those boxes.
This one took me a wee bit to get into over her other books I’ve read, but once I hit the part where Theo arrived in their lives I’d hit the not putting it down for anything moment.
I wish this author wrote faster, or I found another author similar to her because I’ve fallen down that hole of despair of not finding anything else close to what this author writes. One more book and I’ve read them all.
I crave that adrenaline rush
The chaos and desperation
It’s not just about the zombies that has me reading this genre, it’s that survival aspect, the pilfering, the hiding from human threats, combine all of the above and this author ticks all those boxes.
This one took me a wee bit to get into over her other books I’ve read, but once I hit the part where Theo arrived in their lives I’d hit the not putting it down for anything moment.
I wish this author wrote faster, or I found another author similar to her because I’ve fallen down that hole of despair of not finding anything else close to what this author writes. One more book and I’ve read them all.
June 15, 2025
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book, it was well-rated and recommended by a friend, but the title was off-putting and I’m not a fan of straight zombie movies or books. I was very pleasantly surprised, and while aspects were troubling - the zombies are almost laughably easy to kill, slow moving and stupid, and the villain group made very little sense, especially in their ability to track the heroes in a low-tech world (and why?) - it was still entertaining. The story is carried by the two main characters, Vicki and Theo, who are relatable and seemed real. The two kids are endearing and stay in character. Worth reading.
August 3, 2024
Absolutely Brilliant! Highly Recommend 5 Stars 🌟
There’s a thing that happens when you read an author for the first time and she writes a series you absolutely adore, a sadness engulfs you when that series ends. Then they go ahead and start a new series which is just as freaking awesome!!
I mean, Vicki is so real, and she really brings home how well the author can write ordinary characters and make them spectacular in the zombie apocalypse genre. No characters are badass military but their growth has us cheering them on. I love this. I loved this book and I know for sure I can’t be the only one.
Here’s to the next book!
There’s a thing that happens when you read an author for the first time and she writes a series you absolutely adore, a sadness engulfs you when that series ends. Then they go ahead and start a new series which is just as freaking awesome!!
I mean, Vicki is so real, and she really brings home how well the author can write ordinary characters and make them spectacular in the zombie apocalypse genre. No characters are badass military but their growth has us cheering them on. I love this. I loved this book and I know for sure I can’t be the only one.
Here’s to the next book!
October 2, 2025
I was a little put off but the religious stuff at the beginning (I’m more of a backsliding Christian) but I soon realized that wasnt where the book was heading and it was more of a temporary character development thing, so I was able to get into the book and I really enjoyed it.
If you’re someone who likes post apocalyptic type books, without an overwhelming amount of suspense, then you’ll probably enjoy this one. I know some people find the scavenging details a bit boring, but personally I love them. I like living vicariously through characters and the highs and lows of finding things. The little victories of finding an unopened jar of pnut butter or realizing that they could use a camp stove to cook their food instead of building a fire, are what keep me interested. I love hearing how they problem solve and plan.
-forced proximity
-no smut, but a slowly realized romance (not insta-love)
-some gore, some violence, and some suspense, but none of it overwhelmingly so
Overall, I would definitely recommend
If you’re someone who likes post apocalyptic type books, without an overwhelming amount of suspense, then you’ll probably enjoy this one. I know some people find the scavenging details a bit boring, but personally I love them. I like living vicariously through characters and the highs and lows of finding things. The little victories of finding an unopened jar of pnut butter or realizing that they could use a camp stove to cook their food instead of building a fire, are what keep me interested. I love hearing how they problem solve and plan.
-forced proximity
-no smut, but a slowly realized romance (not insta-love)
-some gore, some violence, and some suspense, but none of it overwhelmingly so
Overall, I would definitely recommend
June 15, 2024
Another one Courtney Konstantin knocked out of the park!
I absolutely loved Vicki, the protagonist. I’ve read most of this author’s Sundown Series (I’m obsessed with those books) and I was pleasantly surprised to find that Babysitter of the Apocalypse was a fresh and totally different take on a “surviving the zombie apocalypse” story compared to her previous series. Vicki is unlike the Sundown protagonists, in that she’s entirely unprepared to deal with the undead, entirely unprepared to raise two kids by herself, and really not prepared for much of life in general. She’s hilarious, snarky, and very bad at dealing with emotions, but she’s also insanely lovable. I was rooting for her throughout the entire book.
The found family aspect was perfect, and I found the story to be perfectly paced and a ton of fun. I never get bored reading this author’s books!
I can’t wait for the next book in the series! Until then, it’s back to book 5 of Sundown for me 🫡
I absolutely loved Vicki, the protagonist. I’ve read most of this author’s Sundown Series (I’m obsessed with those books) and I was pleasantly surprised to find that Babysitter of the Apocalypse was a fresh and totally different take on a “surviving the zombie apocalypse” story compared to her previous series. Vicki is unlike the Sundown protagonists, in that she’s entirely unprepared to deal with the undead, entirely unprepared to raise two kids by herself, and really not prepared for much of life in general. She’s hilarious, snarky, and very bad at dealing with emotions, but she’s also insanely lovable. I was rooting for her throughout the entire book.
The found family aspect was perfect, and I found the story to be perfectly paced and a ton of fun. I never get bored reading this author’s books!
I can’t wait for the next book in the series! Until then, it’s back to book 5 of Sundown for me 🫡
September 30, 2025
so fun, had my heart racing and me biting my nails with stress. I loved the domestic trying to build a home scenes and even though the reason for it was unfortunate it was really interesting seeing all these different venues for apocalypse living. for me part of the fun of the genre is seeing what modern buildings would get repurposed into zombie proof housing and an airplane is a sick addition I haven't seen before. loved Gabby and feel so strongly about protecting kids that it was interesting having the pov be of someone who doesnt really like kids but gets saddled with them anyway. I appreciate the message of hey u dont like kids so what they're the future and everyone will focus on making sure they survive. boy I wish that was the energy current American politicians had!!
anyways fun zombie read that will probably give me nightmares but worth it and I'll be reading the second one for sure (if this family doesnt get a happy ending im ripping my skin off)
anyways fun zombie read that will probably give me nightmares but worth it and I'll be reading the second one for sure (if this family doesnt get a happy ending im ripping my skin off)
January 28, 2024
I was getting antsy towards the end because I thought i was going to be left on a cliffhanger. I was mistaken… the ending was the perfect little heartthrob to get me excited for the next book, only now I have to figure out how I can be notified about the next book. I will be starting the next series because I absolutely love the writing style with the characters. I am loving the family dynamic between the characters and how Vicki isn’t sure how to be mom, but she’s shown us the entire book how much she cares and loves those babies without realizing it. I can’t wait to see how her and Theo start to grow together in their new dynamic. I love this story and can’t wait for more!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2025
Fully enjoyable story, measured solely on the fact that I was anxious to get back to it at every free moment. The characters are flawed, gritty, real - they are likeable and funny, even in the face of the end of the world. I found that the story flowed well between the characters, their interactions and the dangers faced at every turn. Survival during the apocalypse might make the strongest succumb to the bottle, throw in a couple of kids and you might just have a reason to keep going. The only aspect that I felt needed more work was the cult's drive to find just one person. Hopefully this is cleared up in one of the following books.
November 29, 2023
Writing is Strong
The characters are consistent, the plot is good, there are interesting troubles and the writing is strong. It isn’t the case with many books in this genre. Books like this stand out.
Vicki is a functional alcoholic grad of the foster care system having aged out and doesn’t have social skills. My favourite characters are like her, flawed but with good intentions and working to survive. Vicki is stuck with children and has to keep them alive too. The world falls apart but these children and Vicki will live.
The characters are consistent, the plot is good, there are interesting troubles and the writing is strong. It isn’t the case with many books in this genre. Books like this stand out.
Vicki is a functional alcoholic grad of the foster care system having aged out and doesn’t have social skills. My favourite characters are like her, flawed but with good intentions and working to survive. Vicki is stuck with children and has to keep them alive too. The world falls apart but these children and Vicki will live.
June 14, 2024
3.75 stars
First time reading this author.
This story was okay. Vicky took the foisting off of the kids much better than I would have. This book was borderline boring. As far as zombie action, it was light-weight. There was just enough zombie interaction to qualify as a zombie book. The cult was the biggest threat, and the little family spent the majority of the book on the run from them. Outside of the cult, and a few zombies situations, survival was pretty easy. Food, shelter and supplies coincidentally available, as was gas and transportation. Hopefully, the sequel will be more exciting.
First time reading this author.
This story was okay. Vicky took the foisting off of the kids much better than I would have. This book was borderline boring. As far as zombie action, it was light-weight. There was just enough zombie interaction to qualify as a zombie book. The cult was the biggest threat, and the little family spent the majority of the book on the run from them. Outside of the cult, and a few zombies situations, survival was pretty easy. Food, shelter and supplies coincidentally available, as was gas and transportation. Hopefully, the sequel will be more exciting.
May 29, 2025
I tried reading this from KU, and couldn't finish. Then it was on sale on audible so I picked it up. I had nothing better to do than listen. I wanted to know what happened to the characters, but not enough to continue on with the series. The book read like a 200 page summary of a book I'd love to have read. This book exemplifies showing instead of telling. The main character had kids trusted into her care and never seemed to gain any agency in the story after words. People rescued her, tried to kill her, all the usual tropes but in the least interesting way possible.
July 9, 2025
I’m a sucker for a good zombie book, and this one definitely delivered. Babysitter of the Apocalypse was fast-paced, entertaining, and had a great emotional core. Watching Vicki evolve from a barely-holding-it-together survivor to a genuine parental figure was one of the most rewarding parts of the story. Her bond with the kids felt real and earned.
Theo was an absolute badass and added a strong dynamic to the group. And the Children of Z? Total nightmare fuel. They brought a whole new level of threat beyond just the undead. Looking forward to continuing the series!
Theo was an absolute badass and added a strong dynamic to the group. And the Children of Z? Total nightmare fuel. They brought a whole new level of threat beyond just the undead. Looking forward to continuing the series!
August 24, 2024
The story is centred around Vicki, who is given the responsibility of looking after two little girls, whose mother never returns. Gabby is 5 yrs old and Tina is 2 yrs old. Along the way they meet Theo, who takes it upon himself to look out for them. An exciting and riveting story full of danger from the undead and an evil cult. A thrilling start to this new series and can't wait for the next one.
January 29, 2025
Yes, it's a zombie apocalypse book. One thing I like is the fact it is not focused on the gorier aspects so many authors are into. Courtney Konstantin does a nice job of letting the reader get to know the characters and their backgrounds. The first book is very good. I really enjoyed getting to know the main characters and how they learned to work together to survive their new and uncertain world. Book 2 continues the story.
July 6, 2025
Babysitter of the Apocalypse Book 1
Finished this book in a day & ready to start book 2!! Fast enough paced fun easy read where a childless woman is handed 2 very young children to watch temporarily by the mother who wants to go try & rescue her sister but never returned & now has to face the zombies & other deviants with no parental or survival skills to speak of, picked it up on a whim & so glad I did
Finished this book in a day & ready to start book 2!! Fast enough paced fun easy read where a childless woman is handed 2 very young children to watch temporarily by the mother who wants to go try & rescue her sister but never returned & now has to face the zombies & other deviants with no parental or survival skills to speak of, picked it up on a whim & so glad I did
October 11, 2025
Great Read
This was my first introduction to this author and I was not disappointed! I read this book in three days while out camping with the family. It was so good and I just love Vicki and all her snark and pessimism. Gabby was also well written, as a mom of a five !year old the attitude and knowitallness was so on point! Glad I found this book and can’t wait to read the next one
This was my first introduction to this author and I was not disappointed! I read this book in three days while out camping with the family. It was so good and I just love Vicki and all her snark and pessimism. Gabby was also well written, as a mom of a five !year old the attitude and knowitallness was so on point! Glad I found this book and can’t wait to read the next one
December 6, 2023
Worth lots more stars!
I firmly believe that this novel is one of the best of the genre. There is incredible character development, the worldbuilding is superb and among the fear, heartbreak and violence there are nuggets of humour. And it's all in a cohesive balance. Absolutely the best!
I firmly believe that this novel is one of the best of the genre. There is incredible character development, the worldbuilding is superb and among the fear, heartbreak and violence there are nuggets of humour. And it's all in a cohesive balance. Absolutely the best!
January 14, 2024
Loving this series
The Sundown series is one of my favorite zombie series, so I knew going in that I was going to really enjoy this book. Courtney did not disappoint. Another page turner with believable characters and a great storyline. I was not ready for it to end. I can't wait for the next book to come out.
The Sundown series is one of my favorite zombie series, so I knew going in that I was going to really enjoy this book. Courtney did not disappoint. Another page turner with believable characters and a great storyline. I was not ready for it to end. I can't wait for the next book to come out.
April 10, 2024
OMG YES
I love this story! I love how the female lead has soo many issues and has to deal with those issues while surviving she's relatable and honest. All the characters are honest. I can't wait for the second book. I do hope there some romance in the next one but I love this kids and bet is the best. Awesome read.
I love this story! I love how the female lead has soo many issues and has to deal with those issues while surviving she's relatable and honest. All the characters are honest. I can't wait for the second book. I do hope there some romance in the next one but I love this kids and bet is the best. Awesome read.
May 6, 2024
I think this already may be one of my favorites from this genre. Love the characters and the storyline. The lead character has realistic struggles and worries and is a person stepping up and doing what she needs to do to survive in this new world and ensure the survival of the little ones she is in charge of. Can't wait to read book two!
May 21, 2024
Great read
I can only imagine being so unprepared for the apocalypse. On top of that being someone that is basically dysfunctional and an alcoholic and then have 2 children thrust upon them it must be real nightmare. Her two companions are interesting And compelling as well. I really enjoyed this book.
I can only imagine being so unprepared for the apocalypse. On top of that being someone that is basically dysfunctional and an alcoholic and then have 2 children thrust upon them it must be real nightmare. Her two companions are interesting And compelling as well. I really enjoyed this book.
July 2, 2024
Fantastic read!!
Great start to what I hope is to continue in several more books to come.
I really enjoyed how real these characters are. No ridiculous survival skills that the characters just magically have like so many other books in this genre. You will really like these characters and you will enjoy your time with them. I am hoping that book 2 comes very soon...
Great start to what I hope is to continue in several more books to come.
I really enjoyed how real these characters are. No ridiculous survival skills that the characters just magically have like so many other books in this genre. You will really like these characters and you will enjoy your time with them. I am hoping that book 2 comes very soon...
September 9, 2024
Awesome story
Poor Vicki, thrust into the apocalypse with two children who are not her own. Trying to figure out her life while trying to keep the three of them alive has been challenging at times. Thank goodness for the people she meets on the way. Can't wait to read the continuing adventures in the next book.
Poor Vicki, thrust into the apocalypse with two children who are not her own. Trying to figure out her life while trying to keep the three of them alive has been challenging at times. Thank goodness for the people she meets on the way. Can't wait to read the continuing adventures in the next book.
April 16, 2025
This book had me hooked from chapter 1!!! I had to make myself put it down and be an adult to cook and clean. Courtney's writing style is one of the best and she really knows how to keep her readers engaged. The way she describes the scenes in her book is perfect. It's almost like I'm in the book watching everything unfold.
July 8, 2025
This book is so well written that the tension and level of anxiety that the main character feels is palpable. We have seen many post-apocalyptic books, movies and series, but I enjoyed that the character development really takes you through the emotions, worries and needs that would plague us all trying to navigate a new world with children in tow.
February 20, 2024
Here For It
Yass Queen! Fantastic job, I loved it all. Sure I want more romance, Theo is a certified Daddy, but the characters are realistic and I couldn't be happier. 10/10 and pissed because I have to wait for the rest of the series.
Yass Queen! Fantastic job, I loved it all. Sure I want more romance, Theo is a certified Daddy, but the characters are realistic and I couldn't be happier. 10/10 and pissed because I have to wait for the rest of the series.
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March 7, 2024Love it
A new twist on the zombie apocalypse. A woman reluctant to care has two little girls thrust into her life.
Can she find a way to keep the little ones safe and herself alive?
A new twist on the zombie apocalypse. A woman reluctant to care has two little girls thrust into her life.
Can she find a way to keep the little ones safe and herself alive?
July 12, 2024
Too repetitive. Events were repeated over and over
It's a good story line, but was stretched to the max with repeating events several times over. A shorter book would have read much better.
It's a good story line, but was stretched to the max with repeating events several times over. A shorter book would have read much better.
February 10, 2025
No Safe Space
Excellent story line and plot. Real action of what could happen in a zombie apocalypse. Living inside a van, a plane, a hardened structure and back to a motor home. Improvise when you can and don't get comfortable in one location. Keep moving is survival.
Excellent story line and plot. Real action of what could happen in a zombie apocalypse. Living inside a van, a plane, a hardened structure and back to a motor home. Improvise when you can and don't get comfortable in one location. Keep moving is survival.
June 29, 2025
A wonderful story for the apocalypse!
Oh, if you love zombies, kids, and handsome men. You gotta read this!
I'm in love ❤️! It's so real and raw, so many variables! A zombie world to truly get lost in and explore.
Oh, if you love zombies, kids, and handsome men. You gotta read this!
I'm in love ❤️! It's so real and raw, so many variables! A zombie world to truly get lost in and explore.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews