Kick at the Darkness

Kick at the Darkness #1

by Keira Andrews

an alternate cover edition can be found here

When the world ends, their story begins.

Parker Osborne is having the worst day ever. He has no friends at college, can’t pick up a guy to save his life, and his annoyingly hot jerk of a TA just gave him a crappy grade.

But Parker’s bad day suddenly becomes a deadly night.

In a blink, he’s surrounded by screaming and chaos and so much blood. People are transforming into zombie-like killers. Parker’s fighting for his life—and without Adam, that muscle-bound jerk who gave him a C-minus, he’d be dead meat.

But Adam has a secret…

Kick at the Darkness is a steamy gay romance from Keira Andrews featuring enemies to lovers, forced proximity, werewolves, the zombie apocalypse, and of course a happy ending (eventually).

Genres: M M Romance, Paranormal, Romance, Zombies, Shapeshifters, Fantasy, Horror

280 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 26, 2015

About the author

Keira aims for the perfect mix of character, plot, and heat in her M/M romances. She writes everything from swashbuckling pirates to heartwarming holiday escapism. Her fave tropes are enemies to lovers, age gaps, forced proximity, and passionate virgins. Although she loves delicious angst along the way, Keira guarantees happy endings!

Reviews

[~✡~Dαni(ela) ♥ ♂♂ love & semi-colons~✡~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reread 12/23 in preparation for book 3, coming January 2024

I remembered the majority of the story because Parker and Adam are unforgettable, but I'd lost some details that felt important. Knowing what was going to happen did not diminish the tension.

If you haven't read this series, now is your chance.

Original review:

Holy shit but this was a wild fucking ride: intense, scary, SEXY, dark, and dirty, oh so DIRTY.



Kick the Darkness is part horror, part apocalyptic fiction, part tender romance.

It will make you tense and grit your teeth, and HOPE, hope with all your heart for Parker and Adam.



Parker demands that his hot TA, Adam, change the C- he received on a paper for his film class to a grade Parker thinks he deserves. Film studies is beneath Parker, who is pre-law.

Parker acts bratty and demanding, and is unwilling to learn from Adam's comments. But there's more to Parker than his little hissy fit in Adam's office. Parker is lonely and deeply insecure, not good enough, never good enough.

But Adam, who's 23 to Parker's 18, keeps his cool; Adam always keeps his cool.

Collected and always in control, Adam, who holds his secrets close, has an instinct for survival. In his leather jacket, atop his Harley, Adam is a walking sin.

When the two men are thrown together during a terrifying pandemic sweeping the world, they form a deep connection.

Nothing makes you grow up like fighting for your life with a machete as the Walking Undead (aka, Creepers) want to eat your face.

Enemies, friends, survival partners, lovers: stolen kisses, long stretches of road, a motorcycle named Mariah, Creepers dripping blood everywhere just looking to strike, and sex—filthy, REAL, raw.



Sometimes it's the only thing that keeps you alive.

I wouldn't call the ending a HEA, but that's not because Parker and Adam aren't solid. Because they are. Once you kill for someone, put your life on the line to save the man you love, you don't look back.

"There are a million what-ifs and maybes in our lives. What if the pandemic had never happened? ... Maybe I would have gone on filming other people's lives ... But I didn't ... Because we needed each other. Maybe if the world had stayed the same, I wouldn't know you. But I can't imagine my life without you now."

These two will sail on. And maybe find a new world.

P.S. I swear to god if this book doesn't have a follow-up, I'll stab my Kindle ... or something. I. MUST. HAVE. MORE.



Let it be known:

I will only read about the zombie apocalypse for Keira Andrews.

BRING IT.

[☆ Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just what are humans capable of when the shit well and truly hits the fan?



For me, that's really what this book was about. Yes, the living 'zombies' in this book were, by far, the biggest threat, but they most definitely weren't the only one that could kill.

For those of you who have seen other reviews comparing this read to the Sterek fanfics out there, yes, when I first began reading the book, my mind did go there for a bit. And then it didn't. At all, so I don't feel that should be of concern in relation to this book.

Parker is a smart, hard-working 18 year old, but he's floundering in his first month at Stanford, not quite used to the Ivy League college's requirement for excellence -- even for 'blow off' courses.



So much to Parker's A student horror, his C- paper leads him to a confrontation with Adam, his extremely HOT & muscley film studies TA, who refuses to change his grade.



Is a single crappy grade really worth so much drama, though? Not when, later that same night, an act of bio-terrorism transforms the vast majority of the world's population into living zombies, hell-bent on devouring the living.

As Adam makes a late-night coffee run, he obliviously winds up right in the fray, only to be saved by his nemesis, Adam, and his badass softtail Harley, Mariah.

Since Adam has no family, the fleeing pair decide to fight their way cross-country to Cape Cod in search of Parker's parents.

Surviving the zombie apocalypse *and* a road trip? Count me in!

I absolutely loved how, as the boys made their way cross-country, they began to help and rely on one another.

The tender scenes where Adam took care of Parker, first in a house, then in a cave, when Parker came down with the flu at the worst possible time in the history of history to get sick, well, that was just pure, cuddly sweetness right there.

Seeing Parker's and Adam's feelings turn into affection, then more, was completely believable. And it didn't feel like those feelings came about because they were "stuck together" and had no other options available.

Then how, after an initial freak out, when Adam's huge secret is revealed, Parker stood by him. Without question. Well, other than a few very *obvious* questions that all of us would undoubtedly ask. Very inspiring.

Another selling point for this book was the banter, which was a joy. And Parker? At times, Parker can blurt with the best of them and there are very few things that I love more than a good, unfiltered blurter. So two thumbs way up for that!

I also enjoyed seeing that, although there were plenty of very bad guys looking take advantage of a horrible situation, there were still decent, caring people, determined to do the right thing.

The creepiest thing about the book, for me, were the constant, unnerving sounds that the creepers made, as they constantly chattered their teeth together, never stopping. Picturing a clamoring, chomping crowd of hundreds of zombies, the sound endless... Talk about the stuff of nightmares.

It's really difficult to write this review and not give away too many spoilers, but the book was never a dull moment, full of confrontations with the creepers, fleeing from various bad guys and, oh yeah, the sexy bits.

I should also mention that this story was chocked FULL of very hot sex scenes. Parker could be a bit of a dirty little slut in the bedroom. Or in a shower. Or over a picnic table. And, yes, there was a bit of flip-flopping!

And. It. Was. Awesome.



One of my only niggles about the story was the note that Parker leaves at the Cape Code house, as the story concludes and they sail off into the sunset together.

How would Parker have liked it if he'd finally arrived at their summer vacation home and found a note from his parents saying, "I was here. I love you.", then nothing else?

At the very least, I would have expected him to give details of how he'd gotten there and where he was heading next. So, oh just maybe, they could have some fucking clue as to where they might FIND him.

But nope, nada. "I was here. I'm out." Radio silence.

Leaving the note at all clearly showed that Parker was holding out hope that his family 'may' still be alive and might come to the summer house, so WHY for the love of God would you not SAY MORE in the note?

Did he run out of paper? Ink? Time? Nope. That made zero sense to me at all.





There could have been a little more direct interaction between the boys and the creepers, but the story was written as more of a love story, which coincidentally happens during the zombie apocalypse, so I was fine with the fewer number of actual zombie fighting scenes.

But the romance? Oh, yeah.

“You know what the best decision I ever made was?”

Holding his breath, Parker shook his head.

“Giving an entitled freshman who didn’t try hard enough a C-minus.”

My thoughts exactly.

One last thing to note. Some have thought this was an HFN vs. an HEA; however, with the level of utter devotion that Parker and Adam exhibited it was definitely an HEA for me.

Even if somehow one of them became infected, I don't really see the other giving up until they'd found a cure, so yes, I have complete confidence in an HEA for this one. : )

4.5 *monsters-and-lurve-left-and-right* stars for this little apocalyptic gem.

[Gigi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every once in awhile a book comes along that everyone is talking about but you just can't seem to pick up and actually read. This happened to me with Kick at the Darkness because I'm not at all interested in reading books about gloom and doom and the end of the world. And shifter books need to be extraordinary (like Kendall McKenna's The Tameness of the Wolf series) or I just can't be bothered. But I decided to read this one since I am a big fan of Keira Andrews' work and every one of my GoodReads friends absolutely LOVED this. So, I got started... And didn't stop until late, late into the night until I finished it. I read the entire book in one sitting. Ms. Andrews kicked this one in the ass and destroyed every one of my preconceived notions about an apocalyptic book actually being romantic. This one is swoon worthy!

Parker Osborne is a freshman in collage at prestigious Stanford University, far from home and his best friends, and he's just gotten this first bad grade on a essay about an old movie. He is your typical stressed out overachiever who doesn't make time for much more than studying and never, ever receives anything below an A. When asking his professor to re-evaluate his grade proves fruitless, he is directed to her TA, Adam Hawkins, who is the one who read and graded his paper.

When Parker meets Adam, there is defiantly no love lost between the two. Adam calls Parker out for turning in a lackluster paper, hoping to skate by in an "Easy A" class. When Parker in unable to get his grade changed, he leaves in a huff. What both men don't know is that they are about to join forces in the adventure of a lifetime, relying on one another for their very lives.

Events take a horrible turn for the worse and people are dying left and right. Parker and Adam had a chance meeting again when the shit gets real and they are about to be overtaken by a horde of zombies. Without thought, Adam and Parker run, with Adam encouraging Parker to keep up. Parker ends up losing Adam, but Adam saves the day by pulling up on a Harley motorcycle and snatching Parker from the clutches of death. And so begins the adventure of a lifetime for them both.

One thing that struck me most while reading this tale was just how funny Parker was. They are running for their very lives but Parker can't seem to stop his smart cracks about any and every thing that catches his fancy. He starts out as a sarcastic, scared kid, always looking to Adam to save his skin, but the progression of his maturity is wonderful to watch from beginning to end. And watching Adam begin to open up to Parker, exposing his secrets and sharing his sorrows was one of the things that made this story so wonderful and beautiful. The relationship these two form is deep and strong and incredibly loving and that is what sold me, hook, line and sinker. They shared their fear, their longing and their passion and held absolutely nothing back.

So, who'd have thought a zombie apocalypse book with an anti-social werewolf and a snotty collage freshman would be such a fabulous read? Certainly not me. But it is that good. And you should RUN to your favorite bookseller and start reading this one ASAP. You will be delighted, I guarantee it. HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommended. This and For Real and my two favorite books for 2015 so far. I can't wait to re-read this one on a crummy day when I need a little comfort from a beloved book.



This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews

[Judith · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars.

Loved it.Off to start book 2.

[Meags · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars

That. Was. AWESOME!


Read #2: July 2016
Read #3: January, 2024

Apparently, I enjoyed this book so intensely the first two times I read it, that I didn’t even have the energy to write a review in the aftermath. Understandable, I guess, because even now, after a third re-read, some 9 years after my first apocalyptic adventure with Parker and Adam, I’m still at a bit of a loss for words to describe how much I love these two characters and their pandemic-set story of terror, loss, survival, hope and, most importantly, love.

Back in 2015 this was a fun, edge-of-your-seat M/M thrill read, following college freshman Parker and his slightly older TA Adam, as they are thrust together to survive an ultimate nightmare scenario, after a human decimating virus breaks out, turning people into zombie-like monsters and ending the world as they know it, literally in the span of a few hours. Watching the world fall to ruin and all the horror that goes with the kind of loss and violence Parker and Adam endure in book one, was fascinating to read back then, but always felt at a nice comfortable distance from any sort of reality of our lives.

But now its 2024 and we’ve lived through a generation defining pandemic ourselves, one that, regardless of your personal experience during that time, has changed our lives in countless ways, irrevocably. And I gotta say, re-reading this story now was a whole new experience for me. Sure, what Parker and Adam endure here is nightmarishly worse than what we have been through in recent years, but one can’t help but read pandemic-type books now with a bit more awareness of how damn precarious our healthy global state of life really is, making a story like this all the scarier.

In terms of the writing, storytelling and romance, this book has held the f*ck up! It’s been almost a decade since its release, and I’ve read countless dystopian/end-of-days type (mostly romance) books in that time, but this still stands out to me as a classic in my personal library—one of those rare unicorn books that I own digitally, physically, and audibly (The Big Three, as I like to call the rare occurrence).

The pacing of this story is particularly noteworthy. The plot momentum holds the entire time, moving perfectly from scene to scene, with nary a moment to stop and rest, making it entirely all too hard to put down once you start. Realising this (for the third time) makes me consider the reality of how few books, regardless of their themes or genre, have such perfect pacing going for them. That one thing alone makes this a standout M/M read of the past decade.

But the positives don’t stop there, because Andrews’ has created something a bit genre defining here, blending lots of contrasting themes in a way that makes this story feel original and (still) unmatched. It’s sci-fi and it’s fantasy; it’s trope-y but authentically so; it’s a love story, and an epic one at that; it's definitely a suspenseful read that'll have your heart racing; and, it’s most certainly a standout in the M/M romance genre—perhaps even an M/M classic, if you’ll permit me to say so, in terms of having one of those stories and book couples you remember no matter how many years have passed or how many other books have been read in between.

Interestingly, I hadn’t forgotten much about Parker and Adam’s story in the many, many years since I last read it, which I can’t say about most re-reads I’ve attempted in the past. Some stories just stick, I guess, and Parker and Adam’s story certainly does in my mind. But the fact that their story is finally ending with the LONG-AWAITED third instalment, Defy the Future, has me excited (and nervous and excited again) in a way I haven’t quite been for a book release in a really long time, so this re-read wasn’t just an indulgence for me but a necessity, in order to do these characters and their larger story justice going forward.

And, of course, a special shout-out to my Sterek crew, who added to my excitement of this re-read and shared in all my fangirling (the PICNIC TABLE, guys!!) over my love of all things reading, M/M romance and TW fanfiction (and have done pretty much for the past decade!!!). We may be scattered around the globe and essentially bad at the definition of buddy read, but that’ll never stop us from giving it a good old crack! You guys rock! <3

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!


Kick at the Darkness Series

Book 1 - Kick at the Darkness (5 Stars)
Book 2 - Fight the Tide (4 Stars)
Book 3 - Defy the Future (4.5 Stars)

[Nick Pageant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can a book about zombies and werewolves merit 5 stars?



This thing has got bloody goodness, smoking hot sexy times, and lots of laughs. It's silly and knows it. Pure fun.

Me + Keira Andrews =

[Heather K (dentist in my spare time) · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really hated this book. Horror is not for me, so if you hate gore and death (including deaths of children) you should AVOID THIS BOOK. I found the mix of zombies and werewolves to be super awkward and I hated the unfinished ending.

I couldn't sleep after reading this one and I took away no enjoyment at all. Low steam, couple that didn't click for me, and a butt-load of gore ---> ME NO LIKEY

[* A Reader Obsessed * · Rating 4 out of 5]

1/5/2024 Reread - 4 Stars!

Great nostalgic fun revisiting Adam and Parker in anticipation of finally getting their overdue long awaited HEA!

———————————————————————

4.5 Stars!

Um… that was pretty darn close to perfection.

There's nothing like an apocalypse to bring two people together, who started off on the wrong foot, and force them to make nice. Of course, this leads to other things. Yeah you know what I'm talking about.

This was like the best mix of action/adventure with a dash of suspenseful horror. Those afraid of zombies can unclench a bit because I hate horror movies, and there was no time while I was reading this where I was too scared to go on. There's also some humor with the right amount of my favorite kind of angst, and a load of romance to offset any other reservations. AND there's sexy times. Freakin good sexy times. Why haven't I read more of this author??

As an added bonus, Sterek fans can read this as Sterek because it's basically Stiles and Derek with just different names. Win-win on all fronts!

Awesome BR with Meags and Belen!!


Kick at the Darkness Series
1. Kick at the Darkness - 4 Stars
2. Fight the Tide - 4 Stars
3. Defy the Future - 4 Stars

[Rain · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Whatever we do, it’s together.”

Even better on a second read!

*Original review below.

Zombie apocalypse, gay romance, and shifters!

It begins on a college campus, Parker (18) is a new student at Stanford, used to an easy ride and getting straight A's. He's a bit of an entitled brat. However, you begin to learn he's simply incredibly insecure and lonely. Adam (23) is a TA in Parker's film studies course, and gives Parker his first poor grade.

“Right. So swords would be good. Where do swords come from? Like, who sells swords in the twenty-first century?"

I'm not a big fan of zombies in my apocalyptic stories, but this one was fun! I grew to care for these two guys, struggling to survive in this inhospitable new world. Their relationship was super steamy and really sweet.

“It’s about more than sex. You know that, don’t you? It’s about the way you make me feel when you touch me. When you look at me like I matter. When I make you laugh. When I wake up in the middle of the night, and I know I’m okay because I’m in your arms."

I'd honestly forgotten the pnr slant until it happens. There was a few hints here and there, but I was so caught up in the zombies and the sexy times that I wasn't paying that close of attention.

The thing moved closer and extended its hairy hand. “It’s okay. It’s me.”

These two men are so endearing, and every time I put the book down, I couldn't wait to pick it back up again. Ends with a hfn, I'm off to start book two!

[*J* Too Many Books Too Little Time]

DNF at 66%



Yeah...I'm a wuss.

I've been trying to broaden my horizons, venture out there, read different genres. But yeah, I can safely say that zombies are



This book scared the shit out of me.

Think....



and



and



Suffice it to say, I didn't sleep much after reading to where I did.

Minus the zombies, this was a great book. Dirty, hot sex. Some laugh out loud moments.

But yeah, no....I don't do zombies apparently.

[Tamika♥RBF MOOD♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Read:05/15
Second Read:06/16


4.5 stars.F**** It, 5 stars. Just because my mind has made up that Adam is Derek Hale. Listen, I've watched Teen Wolf every season, and Adam is Derek minus the sour-wolf, plus this picture sold me as him.



I probably could have found one with a damn gray Henley, but that would have led to my scattered brain mind focusing on other things.

This book surpassed all my expectations. It was really good from beginning to end. No let me say Parker surpassed all my expectations. Here I thought he was going to be this pretentious douche-bag but he was not. He was a fighter, and sure I would have freaked out as well in his shoes. I thought the writing was very good. Loved Parker snarkiness. Can I just give K.Andrews a big ass high 5^ for naming him Parker Osborne, seriously You Rock!!!

Dude this book, helped me if it was every a zombie Apocalypse in the future. I know what to and what not to do. I thought they were fortune of alot of things that they were able to do and stay. I liked the pacing of the story alot. In situations like these, it always seems to me like Marshal law is the first thing that happens. I don't know if I'll be brave enough to leave my house in a situation like this.

The best part of the book was the FREAKIN DIRTY TALK. Parker who is 18, is one of the dirties boys ever! I enjoyed every second of all the words that came out his mouth. 85% and Kiera Andrews wrote this scene and I damn near fainted because I can picture that in my mind! I re-read it 3 more times to make sure it said what it said. It wouldn't be a zombie apocalypse book without some crazy people. Yeah that whole entire Pine resort thing was nice, but I seen crazy coming from a mile away.

I do wish I could have gotten a better ending. I understand it was 10% of Parker finding what he was looking for, but that's it? We just are going to coast along. Hmmm that was disheartening. Overall I really enjoyed this book.

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kiera really does be like...
"what do I want to write about today?...... Amish love story..."
"what do I want to write about today?...... Pirate age gap romance..."
"what do I want to write about today?...... Barbarians..."
"what do I want to write about today?...... Paranormal shifter zombie post apoc..."

THE WOMAN IS A VERSATILE GODDESS OF MOOD WRITING.

Now, Kick at the darkness....
Admittedly, my least fave Kiera book so far 😬😬😬
I rounded up to 4 but probably hit on a 3-ish level for me.

The post-apoc, zombie movie, paranormal shifters vibes... CHEFS KISS.



The romance vibes...



It was too quick from tense irritation at the teachers aid (super hot build up I was sensing) to showering naked together and cuddling after like 1 day of zombie apoc (why are we doing that to casually, so soon when you think he's straight?) for my taste. The I love you came a bit too quick and most of the book is Adam protecting Parker who be's preeeeeeeeeeeetty useless. 😬

(not judging him too hard on that though, I'd be instantly dead in a zombie apocalypse, like "what do you mean I shouldn't pack my emotional support kindle because there's no electricity and it'll be useless?")


It almost felt like they trauma bonded in a stressful situation (LIKE FAIR 💅🏻💅🏻 IF I MIGHT BE MURDERED ANY SECOND BY ZOMBIES, I ALSO MIGHT WANT TO GET DICKED DOWN GOOD BEFORE I'M DEAD) instead of forming any real connection. The connections grows through the book I think?
And I'm going to continue the series because I did still have a pretty good time! I think the Audio of this book slightly dulled the experience too? He was a bit monotonal for my liking but not awful?

I'm keen to get into Adam's POV because he is still pretty mysterious after book 1, and I wanna be in that lil brain of his. hahaha.



(Also, the switch scene in this, went FULL 0 to NO PREP, NO LUBE, FERAL DICK RIDING MODE...... like SIR, IS YOUR BUTTHOLE OKAY? Because... I don't think it should be??????? R U OK MY MAN?)

[Ingie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written September 11, 2015

4 1/5 Stars - Simply adorable and thrilling fun



A road trip M/M in a zombie disease time?
A horror version of feared biotechnology terrorist attacks? Or just another new great heartbreaking romance by Keira Andrews? Whatever, much appreciated by many friends this summer. Felt like an absolutely weird romance topic, but it was very interesting to start this journey and discover what they all talked about a couple of months ago. I rubbed my hands and eagerly throw me over it.

Happy Zombie Dancing... ~ Yay, this was so much fun!

*********************************************************

« A virus is unleashed, transforming infected people into zombie-like killers. After these quick and deadly creepers swarm campus, Parker only escapes thanks to Adam swooping him onto the back of his trusty motorcycle. Now they're on the run—and stuck with each other. »

Parker Osborne a 18 years old Stanford College freshman is having a very bad day. No friends, a 'no' from a cute guy and only a simple C-minus on his first assignment paper in the film class. Add a dumb angry, not very wise and clever, conversation with the film class' teacher's assistant (TA). Life sucks and Parker need a start fresh tomorrow after he’s had a good sulk.

Then later Parker meet the guy he don't want to ever never talk to again, Adam Hawkin. Adam is the TA who gave Parker that dreadful C-minus. **Arrrggg!!** Why now, why this evening? There in the campus park is this stunning guy: dressed in a leather jacket, beautiful with high cheekbones, a mature few years older (23) and he is.. **drool** ..simply sexy gorgeous.

Our (poor sulking) Parker and, by now a bit bored and cocky Adam. A TA guy with documentary film career aspirations is to be true quite tired of these lazy new freshmen which choose the film-class as a supposed to be "easy-to-get-a-good-grade-without-any-work" class. They just glare at each other. They starts to bickering... Then it all happens. What's the noise? Oh my, start to RUN!!

...In a moment changes the world we knows
People are screaming and running all over. There are odd blood-hungry guys hunting students and the calm evening turns to a scary hell. Thanksgod, Parker is near a true strong M.A.N hero like Adam...with a motorcycle.

*********************************************************

Kick at the Darkness is funny, scary, surprising, hilarious, thrilling, bloody, adventurous, witty, unbelievable, a tiny bit kinky and steaming hot.

Add a motorcycle journey and a struggle to reach Boston. Truly quite hard to put a genre or label on. Kick at the Darkness got "it all" in one book. The romance part? Just adorable cute and heartwarming. I "felt" it.

”What’s wrong?”
“Aside from the zombie apocalypse?”

I could write so much about this fast paced adventure but it's better for you to just experience it by yourself instead. Try to avoid storyline-spoilers, just read and enjoy. You will be surprised. I didn't see some turns and twists before they came. I simply read with big eyes and couldn't always guess where it should end. (We left them in a good place though.) I adored these character in the end. So very well done, it's hard to not be totally enchanted and blissfully charmed.

...Did I mention giggle and chuckle-provoking?

”I just said some, you know, raunchy stuff. I don’t want you to think I’m weird.”
Adam tilted Parker’s chin until Parker looked at him. “I don’t think you’re weird.”
“You don’t?” Parker smiled tentatively.
“I know you’re weird.”

Gee! A perfect 'fun' romance for me.
I'm quite surprised how much I loved this M/M adventure. I'm sure there are some lacks etc etc, and maybe not high respected grand literature, but for once is this lady so very kind and generous —it's Friday evening after all— a 4 1/2 star review rating and that will be, not just those usually four, but (it's true)
5 (YES FIVE!) 'Happy Dancing' GR Stars from me.

*********************************************************

I LIKE - to be surprised (in a good way)


******
I'm not a "Sterek" fanfic reader... but the main characters reminds of those guys (..so many of my friends loves). Check out those nice pics or gifs on the net and you can feel Parker & Adam in some of them.

[.Lili. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ho-ly Sh*te! What. A. Book. This is the type of story I usually avoid- Dystopian/Zombie stories are not normally my thing. I either: A. Find it hard to get into the story because it sounds too unbelievable or B. It's too believable and it makes me too nervous. After reading other books by this author and loving them- I had to give this one a shot. Glad I did!

What I loved:
*It was sexy
*Gripping
*Intense
*Dirty
*Heartbreaking
*Romantic
and above all else- full of hope.

It was amazing! Why 4.5 Stars instead of 5?



I wanted more in the end. I am really hoping that there's a second book in the works! Can't recommend this one enough! I just LOVED it!

[nark · Rating 3 out of 5]

✦ an okay read? idk man. this just didn't fully pull me in. i didn't particularly care about either of the mcs. they were just so average and so was their relationship.
✦ i don't know if i'm gonna keep reading this series tbh. overall, there was nothing that original here when it comes to a post apocalyptic zombie book, except that Adam is a werewolf. maybe my hopes were too high for this or something, since i've been hearing about this book for years and i love a dystopian/post apocalyptic setting. 🤷

[Dalia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The world they’d always known was vanishing. Was already gone.

Parker is a college freshman that just got a shitty grade from Adam, a hot TA, who has no intention on changing his grade, no matter how much crap Parker throws at him. Parker decides that he's going to drop Adam Hawkins’ film class first thing tomorrow, but then the world goes to hell.

A fast-spreading virus, that turns people into creepers, is unleashed.

Parker only escapes thanks to Adam. Now they head east on Adam's motorcycle to find Parker's family. They try to survive together no matter what and soon realise that they need each other more than they ever thought they would.

“Admit it. You called yourself the big, bad wolf.”
He caught Parker’s wrist with a reluctant smile. “Okay, I give. I admit it.”
“That would naturally make me Little Red Riding Hood in this scenario. Oh, what big eyes you have!”

This book was so enjoyable. It has lots of action. It's funny, sweet and hot. And the dirty talk is scorching. The ending makes me want a sequel so bad!

[Nazanin · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

The next day after getting a C-minus in his movie class (considering he was a straight-A student) and having a bad meeting with the TA about his grade, when Parker (18) went out of the dorm and had another bad encounter with the TA at campus, Adam (23), they noticed what was happening; people screaming, killing each other, crazy people with jerky movements… some kind of virus took over and made people to zombies! And at this moment Adam was Parker’s best chance to survive but could Adam protect his secret during this dangerous journey or could it come in handy …

Told in single POV, 3rd person, it’s the first installment in the "Kick at the Darkness" series. Considering the next installment is still about this couple but this one wasn’t cliffy. It was an enjoyable read, given I had never been a big fan of zombies (I hate those creatures). These two were really good with/to each other and I’d like to hear Adam’s POV but it still was good. It’s well-paced and a bit angsty with likable characters. Overall, liked it and hope you enjoy it as well!

[Debra ~~ seriously slacking on her reviews ~~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is so much I enjoyed about this book, I’m not sure where to start. I will say that you should not be put off if you think you would not “read zombies”. Like I tell my husband when I try to convince him to watch Walking Dead with me, it’s not about the zombies, it’s about the people and Keira Andrews has created two completely lovable MC’s in the very opposite Adam and Parker.

Parker is the entitled prep school graduate whose first year at Stanford isn’t starting out so well and Adam is the TA that won’t cut him a break in what was going to be Parker’s blow off class. After the two have a less than stellar introduction, the world descends into madness and the two men need to rely on each other to survive. If Parker is worried that Adam may not stay with him once he knows he is gay, Parker is in for an even bigger surprise when he finds out what Adam is hiding.

As the two men set off on a cross country motorcycle trip to find Parker’s family their true personalities quickly come out and they form a fast bond. Parker is panicky, insecure, caring and funny, while Adam is quieter, guarded and protective, seeming to take in everything around them. Along the way they encounter other survivors, both good and bad, as well as the “creepers” who are not the shuffling, undead zombies I was expecting.

It was fast paced, with plenty of action, tension and humor. I loved the way the characters opened up to each other and grew over the course of the story. When Parker and Adam do get together they are sweet and hot and it unleashes an unexpected side of Parker – a filthy, dirty side that nearly melted my Kindle!

The story managed to surprise me a couple times when I thought I knew just what would happen. For me the ending was perfect. Bittersweet, hopeful, satisfying, but with plenty of room for more in the future. I’d be there in a heartbeat for a sequel.


ARC provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing in exchange for an honest review.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story Rating ~ 5 Stars
Both Hero Ratings ~ 5 Stars
Romance Rating ~ 5 Stars
Imagination ~ 5 Stars
Action Leve; ~ 5 Stars
Heat Level ~ 5 SCORCHING Stars!
Ending ~ 4 Stars
Overall Rating ~ 5, IT WAS EVERYTHING STARS!

Going in to this book, I KNEW I was going to really like it. I have to say that I did not like it at all,
II ABSOLUELY LOVED IT!!

The book starts off with Parker being angry that he got a C- on a paper in college. Parker NEVER gets grades that low so he ends up at Adam’s office hoping Adam would change his grade. Well, Adam’s not going to change Parker's grade. He knows that Parker took this class for an easy A. He could also could tell Parker did not really apply himself while writing it. They end up parting ways with Parker saying that he’s going to drop the class.

It’s not long after that when everyone is in a buzz, watching T.V and freaking out. Parker decides to go and get a coffee when all hell started falling down all around him. Blood everywhere, strange people with bulging eyes and chattering teeth eating people. Every way he turned they were there and then he sees Adam. Adam yells for Parker to follow him as he starts to run. Parker tries hard to keep up but Adam has already disappeared. The zombies are closing in on him fast and just in the nick of time, Adam shows up riding his Harley and tells Parker to hop on.





As you can imagine, these two were not friends at first but as the story revolves their feelings start to change. They ride together from one horrific scenario to the next trying to stay alive.

I LOVED Parker, he was so cute and tender, and he also did a bunch of babbling when he was flustered. At first when he was scared he’d start to panic when he did, Adam was there to help calm him down.

Adam OH MY! He was SO darn sexy. He was always trying to keep Parker safe. Adam was the alpha of the two, the protector, and the strong one. He had a level head on his shoulders and barely showed his fear.

As they ride from place to place trying to stay away from the teeth chattering zombies they do find safe places to stay, at least for a little while. This is where the heat really kicks in. These two are so tender and loving it practically took my breath away. They also had some HARD SCORCHING sex too. These scenes had me all hot and bothered. It’s not often that I rate a book 5 stars on the heat but this one tipped over my meter. With that being said, I have to also add that NO, this book is not filled with endless scenes.





This was an action packed book that had me reading as fast as I could to find out what was going to happen next. I LOVED every moment and wish this story could have just kept going. That is the only complaint I have about this read, I DID NOT WANT IT TO END!

[Shile (Hazard's Version) on-hiatus · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Zombie/ Creepers stars...

I Loved it .
MC 1 : Parker
MC 2 : Adam
And Mariah the Motorbike

Our MC’s meet when Parker is given a C- in a film class paper that he believes he deserves an A since its just film class. When he goes to find the TA to change his grade what he finds is not what he expected. His TA is this hot , cool guy called Adam. And this is where their journey begins

There were Zombies(Creepers) that these two had to fight to survive



I loved Parker, and his sense of humor.

“Uh, yeah. Look, we’re already dealing with sort-of zombies. We need to capitalize on all your mad werewolf skillz, yo.” “Did we travel in time back to two thousand and eight, homie?”
Parker’s burst of laughter filled the stillness of the cabin. “I admit my street language is a little dated.”

“Adam, you could be a lesbian vampire succubus who moonlights as a golem and I would still want to suck your cock twenty-four-seven.”

Adam Ohh! I just wanted to hug him I felt sorry for him.

“It’s not your fault. I’m a freak, Parker. I can’t expect anyone to accept me once they know the truth.”

The sex was scorching hot, dirty and at 85% there was a scene that was a bit creepy but well…did i care.. Nope! I loved it.

Parker is a dirty talker….
“I want you to stretch me open and fill me up again and again. Until it’s dripping out of me, and you lick it up and feed it to me, and then you fuck my mouth and I swallow it all and—” Parker gasped as he came in long spurts over Adam’s hand.



He loves me. I love him. We could be dead tomorrow, so why the hell shouldn't we love each other?

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cross-posted at Outlaw Reviews and at Shelf Inflicted

I love horror. I love zombies. I love hot romance. I love a combination of all three!

Two out of three ain’t bad.

What was missing for me in this story is the horror element. Even though there were plenty of mean zombies, at no time was I scared, grossed out, tense, deeply disturbed or unsettled. Zombies are supposed to be scary!

I wanted the tension, struggle, danger, recklessness and action that keeps me flipping pages. More thrills, chills, close calls, conflicts, and humans that are even scarier than zombies!

This is a romance novel first, so I was expecting the requisite happy ending. Rather than ruin the story with a sappy HEA, the author chose a perfect ending that leaves the fate of the main characters and their future undetermined. So I’m really hoping for a sequel.

Thanks to Jo * Smut-Dickted * from Bookie Nookie's Erotic Lending Group for lending this to me.

[Otila · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was so much fun. It's Sterek meets The Walking Dead!

It's got the Zombie Apocalypse.


A werewolf.


More specifically, a hot, leather jacket wearing, motorcycle riding werewolf that looks like this guy...


A hilariously snarky cutie.


And smokin' hot man on man action!


It was funny and thrilling with plenty of action and I mentioned the smokin' hot smexing, right?

It could have used way more gore though and a bit more action at the end when they escaped the resort. Maybe Adam ripping some throats out and blowing shit up. Just some more badassery in general. But I guess they can't all be Daryl.


Thanks to Rosa, Valerie and Therese for the great BR.

[Fabi NEEDS Email Notifications · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars - yup, I'm giving it the full 5 stars

I was in a bit of a book funk when I started reading this. I'd never read a zombie story nor watched anything like that on TV or movies. So this was a bit of a reach for me. But it was mm and I'd read several great mm books recently so I decided to give it a try.

It was amazing.



Andrews threw everything but the kitchen sink into this story.

Zombies
Shifters
Apocalypse
Evil scientist
MM romance
MM erotica
Harley rider
College students
Tall, dark & handsome
Sweet & caring
Funny & charming
Rich kid, poor kid
Sailing
Sunsets

I swear the list goes on. Never in a million years would I think a story with ALL those elements would work. But guess what? Andrews is a genius.

I engaged from the very first page. The MC is immediately lovable. Then we meet tall, dark and brooding and its love at first sight (for me - not so much for them).

So you're wondering what makes this crazy sounding story so good? Well, its the best that a writer has to offer. It's character development and pace.

The story moves along so well, so smoothly, that you find yourself turning page after page. What happens next? You just keep reading because it never slows down. It never drags.

What could be better than a perfectly paced story? Well developed characters! Every-single-character was essential to the story. Every-single-character had a perfectly unique voice.

The MC has such an interesting dry wit. I smiled, I laughed, I even choked once or twice.
"Does Amazon Prime still deliver in the Apocalypse?"

I bet you're wondering what happened to the zombies. This is a zombie story right? They're there, "their chattering filling the air like cicadas on crack." The humour was pervasive. I smiled through an entire zombie book.

I never felt like this wasn't real because the modern world was embedded throughout the story. We heard about the Internet and YouTube and Amazon and phone chargers with a plug for the "five". In the apocalypse "... we get to find out what life's like without smartphones.". Sound scary? It's terrifying for me. :-)

I think I could go on and on about this book. I have so many highlights that I'd likely get in trouble for copyright infringement if I mentioned all of them. So how about you go ahead and read it and then let me know if you find it as refreshing a read as I did. I am officially out of my book slump thanks to this one.

ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

[Virginia Ronan ♥ Herondale ♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m on BookTube now! You can find my channel here! =)

”The common room was crowded with people watching CNN, but Parker didn’t care about whatever protest or riot or whatever-the-fuck was happening. He probably should, but he had way too much reading to do, especially after wasting time at that meeting.”

And this, my friends, is exactly how you miss the approaching apocalypse! *lol* To be fair Parker had just gotten a C-minus in a course he thought he could half-ass his way through and his mind obviously was occupied with other things. Of course this was going to bite him in his ass, almost literally, when he discovered that there were actual and real zombies running towards him when he was on his way to his next class on campus. Thankfully, the very same TA who gave him that horrible grade happened to be in his vicinity when the attacks started and actually saved his life. And this is how it all begins!

Parker shook his head. “But why would you stay with me? I’m a loser. I never do things right, and I’ll slow you down. You’re so fast. How are you so fast?”
“You’re not a loser. You’re annoying as hell sometimes, but you’re brave, and you care about people.”

I never knew I needed a book like this in my life but here we are and I’m not mad about it! I stumbled upon “Kick at the Darkness” when I was scrolling through my goodreads feed and whoever liked it and brought it to my attention: I owe you big time, because this was amazing! When I read the blurb and realized that this book is the m/m love child of “The Walking Dead” meets “Werewolves” I knew I had to get my greedy and very grabby hands on a copy of this story! And let me tell you this: It was the best impulse buy ever! I read this book in less than 24 hours and it was worth every second I spent with it! Parker and Adam were so good for each other and even though there wasn’t a lot of world building (we’re basically in America as it is right now only infested with zombies) this was one hell of a fun ride! Quite literally because Adam and Parker make their way through creepers infested America on the back of a motorbike. What’s not to love about that?!

"Parker went to use the toilet, which felt like absolute luxury. He wanted to cry when it flushed."

Also even though this was fiction, there were so many things the reader would be able to relate to if they’d end up being in the same situation. Like the fact that the internet collapsed, there is almost no news on how everything is going in other parts of the country, and some people are starting to get hostile and violent while others try to save humanity as good as possible. It’s mayhem and our two boys are trying to survive it while they make their way to Cape Cod in the hopes to find Parker’s parents. I personally found it very fascinating how the author managed to keep the overall plot light enough the reader was hooked, but still managed to address serious topics. It’s a balancing act not everyone is able to pull off, but Keira Andrews managed to do it just fine.

”Most creatures can’t survive decapitation.”
“Right. So swords would be good. Where do swords come from? Like, who sells swords in the twenty-first century? It’s probably all online. Does Amazon Prime still deliver in the apocalypse?”

Another thing I really appreciated about this book was the humour! Like seriously, Parker was hilarious and I loved his inner monologue and the things he just blurted out whenever he was unable to keep his thoughts inside of his head. For me Parker was extremely relatable and I absolutely loved him for being like that! No filter, sometimes painfully honest but always so very human and wearing his heart on his sleeve. I felt with him whenever they came across other people and tried to help them as good as possible. His weakness for chips and “salty goodness” as he called it was literally me! *lol* And I probably would have cried about the luxury of having a flushing toilet and a functioning shower too. XD I’m not even kidding, I spent parts of my youth in tents without running water, let alone sanitary facilities so I know what I’m talking about. ;-)

”I don’t want to drool on you again,” he mumbled. “It’s such bad manners. My mother would be shocked and appalled. She’d be shappalled.”
As he faded away, he heard the soft rumble of Adam’s laughter.

See what I’m talking about? This is me. *lol* I’d invent a new word like “shappalled” as well. Ask my family, they had to get used to many new words over the years. (I swear someday they’ll make it into the dictionary, just you wait. ;-P) Anyway! Let’s get to the elephant in the room and finally discuss the amazing budding relationship between Parker and Adam. They started off on the wrong foot and Parker wasn’t exactly nice to Adam when he confronted him about his C-minus, and this is me putting it mildly. Yet, Adam still saved him and they started to grow on each other while they tried to find out what happened. I absolutely loved their chemistry and how they went from strangers holding a grudge to friends and ended up being lovers that went through thick and thin together.

"But Adam tugged him back between his legs and wrapped his arms over Parker's chest. His breath was warm on Parker's ear. "Sleep."
Despite everything, Parker felt safe.

If you’re fighting for your life in a global zombie apocalypse you definitely want to have a man like Adam next to you. The way he always found Parker and cared about him when he was coming down with the flu (literally the worst time to have a flu ever!!!) was so damn endearing and soft! The shift from friends to lovers was very realistic as well and I’m not gonna lie, I whooped when I reached the 40% mark of the book and things finally started to develop! There were small signs throughout the entire book but for all the m/m romance lovers among you who like their steamy scenes: They don’t happen until about 40% into the book, and then it’s a lot of very steamy scenes up until about 65% or so before things quiet down a little bit again. Just to give y’all a heads-up without spoiling anything. ;-)

"He thought of Adam, who had annoyed him so much when they met. Adam, who had saved him again and again. Adam, who was so brave and beautiful and generous and patient, and who he'd just woken up beside.
Adam, who'd kisses him like he couldn't get enough."

Those two were just perfect for each other! Even though it didn’t seem like it at the beginning of the book. Also they were both great characters that had to deal with their individual issues while everything they knew crumbled around them. Parker is very insecure because his older brother is the golden child of the family and he always felt somewhat inferior to him and Adam had his own kind of demons to fight while they made their way through the country. My heart broke for him, the more we found out about his past, and near the ending there came a moment when all I wanted to do was to wrap him in a blanket and take care of him the same way he did for Parker all this time. I loved Parker even more for doing that for Adam instead.

”Thank you for everything you’ve done for me.” Adam was warm and breathing and alive, and Parker soaked it in with a kind of need he’d never felt. After a few heartbeats, Adam hugged him back. For a minute, they simply held each other close, the water beating down. They were safe in their little cocoon, the rest of the world fading away.”

Their soft moments were the death of me. Don’t get me wrong, I love myself some steamy scenes every once in a while (and we get plenty of those too!), but what I really live and breath for are those little, infinitesimal moments that made their connection so precious. The way Adam was always able to calm Parker down, how their very different characters complemented one another, how they moved heaven and hell to get the other out of trouble and back to safety whenever the shit hit the fan. The apocalypse might have caused them to get to know each other but they fell in love all of their own.

The girls edged away, eyeing him uneasily, and Parker recognizes there was a tinge of hysteria to his giggles. Yet he couldn’t seem to stop himself. Then Adam was there, standing right against him, his palm cupping Parker’s cheek.
“In and out.”
His breath was warm on Parker’s face, and Parker closed his eyes, leaning into him for a moment. He opened his eyes and looked into Adam’s. “Okay. I’m good. Sorry. I won’t freak out.”

There was some depth to this story I honestly didn’t expect. Not considering the fact this is legit pegged as a smutty book about werewolves and the zombie apocalypse! Yet here I am and I loved every second of it. I can’t believe this book has been out in the world since 2015 and I only just discovered it now! I’m so glad I stumbled upon this little gem that was truly the perfect blend of three of my favourite genres! I wish there would be more books like this one out in the world and I can’t wait to pick up book two, because I already know it’s going to be even more epic than the first one!

“You know what the best decision I ever made was?”
Holding his breath, Parker shook his head.
“Giving an entitled freshman who didn’t try hard enough a C-minus.” Parker’s head was suddenly light, and he gripped Adam’s hand.

Conclusion:

I think I already said it all but I’ll say it again: I loved this with every fibre of my heart and I gobbled it up like nobody’s business! The mere fact I read this in less than 24 hours should speak for itself! If you love werewolves, zombies and steamy m/m romances you can’t go wrong. And if you’re a frequent reader of Wattpad or of fanfics on AO3, even better for you! You’ll have a field day reading this one! “Kick at the Darkness” was extremely suspenseful as well and Adam’s and Parker’s relationship never failed to hit me in the feels! I loved them, I loved this, I want more! ;-)

___________________________

Okay, y’all! Jury’s in and this book was …
A.M.A.Z.I.N.G!! <3
Like seriously! I gobbled this up like nobody’s business and Parker and Adam were such a cute couple! Loved those two! Also it took a while until things got steamy and I appreciated that.
Someone said this sounds like a story on AO3 or Wattpad and well, yeah! But I’m definitely not mad about it. *lol*

Full RTC soon-ish! I absolutely loved this and can’t wait to read book two. XD
____________________________

No, but this sounds like such a perfect read!!!
Like I mean “Wolfsong” meets “The Walking Dead”?!
How am I supposed not to buy this? Werewolves and zombies are both things I love to read about. Or watch on TV for that matter. ARGH!!
Impulse buy for real! *lol*

Like I just… my finger won’t stop. It needs to click on that buy button.
Oopsie. It happened.

Oh, well. If I already have the book I might start reading it, right? *lol*

Yep, thought so!

Here we gooooo!!! XD

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[Ele · Rating 5 out of 5]

BR with my Dani.

Given the fact that I rarely read paranormal, let alone horror stories with zombies, I surprised myself by wanting to read this book. But the blurb was kinda tempting and frankly between Keira Andrews and Dani I didn't stand a chance.

I know some people who can handle horror pretty well. I'm not one of those people. Zombies freak me out and this was really scary sometimes. This was me when the "creepers" made an appearance, especially in a couple of scenes.



And then



And in the end



Adam and Parker start out as enemies, when Adam, as a TA refuses to change Parker's grade. Later that day, though, when all hell breaks loose and the zombies start attacking, they are forced to depend on each other and on Mariah , Adam's bike, to survive. And so the adventure starts. As the story progresses, they will become friends and eventually lovers. But Adam has a secret ( which you have to be an idiot or totally cluelless at paranormal to miss *cough* like me *cough*) and soon Parker realises it's not only the zombies he has to worry about.

The romance NEVER takes a backseat. The story is, above all else, a love story. The connection between them is strong and the sex...oh dear,the sex...hot, filthy, disturbing and breathtaking...

As for the ending, like Dani said, I consider it a HFN. Not because of the guys, they 're still going strong. But because I think that the story itself has loose ends and we have to know more.

Keira Andrews...you made me read a paranormal-horror-zombie story. And I loved every minute of it.
Solid 5 stars and highly recommended!

[Papie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romantic horror? Is that a thing? Apparently, and I loved every minute of it.

Adam and Parker are sweet, fierce, adorable and so so so sexy. I mean, this is Keira Andrews. 🔥🔥🔥

It’s a zombie pandemic. A virus spreading so fast and turning people into zombies/creepers. No vaccine. No rules. No law. Our boys are stuck together trying to survive.

If you’re a true horror fan, this isn’t particularly scary. The virus arrives too fast and suddenly to allow you to be really scared IMO. And it’s really a romance first and foremost. So you know our two guys will be living happily together at the end. But it’s creepy and weird and so much fun.

The scariest part was the loneliness. The lack of communications. Not knowing what happened to your loved ones. When my children were babies, I sometimes practiced in my head how we would escape together if something terrible were to happen. Strap the baby on my chest, the toddler on my back, and my husband would carry the older one. And the dog? I’m rambling. But you get it.

I highly recommend this! Fun, creepy, and sexy! Zombies, werewolves and a terrifying pandemic!
Perfect for for the season.
❤️💀👹🔥

[Lyn❤Loves❤Listening to Real Voices Only!!!!❤️&#x1f3a7;&#x1f4da; Addict ON HIATUS]

This review is for the audiobook only.

DNF because the narrator is not working for me at all. Admittedly he has a nice voice, but that's it. There is a total lack of performance.

Keira Andrews is one of my very favorite go to authors. I love her stories, and I love her writing. Unfortunately, the narrator was butchering both the story and the writing. The story felt lifeless and the writting stilted. I had to stop listening!!!

It's no secret. I LOVE AUDIOBOOKS. I'M ADDICTED TO AUDIOBOOKS. My addiction started less than 3 years ago, and as of today, I own 963 audiobooks. With the stay at home order, that number grows daily. So, yeah, I get pissed off when a story I'm sure I'll love is messed up by poor narrator performance.

I may be in the minority when it comes to this narrator, but I had to express my frustation at him being selected to narrate this particular series. Iggy Toma would have slammed dunked the heck out of this series. In this case, Tantor totally let me down!!

[Rosa, really · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hi, I'm Rosa and I'm too lazy to write a review.

Anyway, book?



Dean speaks only the truth.

Thanks for the BR, Otila, Valerie & Therese!

[Deborah · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5*

Re-read 17th - 18th January 2024

I decided to do a re-read before tackling the third and final book which is finally out 🥳
My original review stands.

Original review:

I'd noticed several friends had read and really enjoyed this book so I decided to give it a try after all it does combine two of my favourites M/M and shifters with the bonus of a zombie apocalypse thrown in!

Before I really start with my review I have to be honest and say I would not have continued on with this if it hadn't been for all the fabulous reviews from my friends.
Why?
Parker annoyed the every loving shit out of me early on and normally this would have been enough to quit but I'm so glad I didn't because this turned out to be a real gem.
I used to read a lot of shifter books but I don't know if it's because I've read so many or there's just no original ideas out there but they've lost there appeal and before this I can't remember the last time I actually enjoyed one.

Parker is a college freshman and is annoyed beyond belief that he's received a C-minus on his paper. He confronts the TA responsible Adam Hawkins and while he's instantly attracted to Adam it appears he's straight.
Circumstances puts these two together as the zombie epidemic hits and together they run, well technically they ride because incredibly hot leather wearing Adam has a Harley, yes I know he's even hotter than we first thought.

Adam and Parker may have been forced together by circumstances but they grow together as they journey. Parker really grew on me and it turned out he was funny.

Does Amazon Prime still deliver in the apocalypse?

"Have you handled a lot of shotguns?” Lauren asked.
"Nope.” Parker waved the manual. “I just read the instructions. It’s a bold choice, I know.”

I grew to love both these characters and together they are hot and I do mean hot, the story never lets up and it's fabulous.
It's the first book I've read by this author and seriously if you like M/M, shifters or even zombies this is well worth checking out.

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reread- Jan 24 - Finally the third one I out and absolutely the right time to reread this great series.... again
January 2019 - Still flew through this book! Onto a re-read of the sequel

July 2016 - Goodness this is such a great book!



Cracked open my paperback for this read and read it with some awesome ladies!

https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...


Review:

Whats not to love about this book, really?!?! It has humour, action, emotional times (Oh God soooo many emotions), gore, love and really hot sex! Sounds like a perfect book? well it kinda is!

As I said in my updates, I've seen a lot of Zombie movies and read a few books, but I have never felt an emotional connection to the anonymous people who died in the 'apocalypse'. It was always just about the blood and gore. Keira Andrews wrote a few scenes where my heart ached for these unknown people and I truly felt the shock of this world suddenly changing.

Moving on from the sappy stuff, this book was sooo funny, Parker is just a refreshing and fun character and Adam compliments him really well. Also the sex was.... *grunts* soooo goood!!! These two have a thing of 'cleaning up' after themselves, if you know what I mean *winks*, very yummy stuff (pun intended :P).