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INFECTED: Book 1 of the Zombie Infection series
The zombie infection lurks in the depths of the earth, waiting to be unleashed.
All Gus Swanson ever wanted was to be left alone to his farm and family. But when the infection turns him into patient zero, a path of destruction begins that could envelope the entire human race.
As the world continues to spin on, unaware of the horror that lurks beneath its surface, a deadly infection is about to be unleashed. And now, it's spreading like wildfire, turning the living into mindless, flesh-eating zombies. As survivors fight for their lives, they soon realize that the true threat may not be the zombies, but their fellow humans who will do anything to survive. With every page, the danger grows, and the stakes become higher. Will anyone make it out alive in this new world? Or will they all succumb to the zombie infection? If you're a fan of all things zombie, then you don't want to miss out on Infected, the first installment in this gripping series. Grab your copy now and join the fight for survival. Because in a world ruled by the undead, only the strongest will make it out alive.
“This story is better than anything Hollywood puts out.”
“Well-crafted in the same genre of ‘Last of Us.’”
“This is just awesome!!!”
“This adrenaline-fueled journey is definitely not one to miss out on.”
“I look forward eagerly to the following books in the series.”
“I highly recommend the book for fans of zombie books and games.”
“The author’s descriptiveness had me feeling like I was directly experiencing the events.”
“The sense of growing danger and the air of anxiety lingers with each chapter.”
All Gus Swanson ever wanted was to be left alone to his farm and family. But when the infection turns him into patient zero, a path of destruction begins that could envelope the entire human race.
As the world continues to spin on, unaware of the horror that lurks beneath its surface, a deadly infection is about to be unleashed. And now, it's spreading like wildfire, turning the living into mindless, flesh-eating zombies. As survivors fight for their lives, they soon realize that the true threat may not be the zombies, but their fellow humans who will do anything to survive. With every page, the danger grows, and the stakes become higher. Will anyone make it out alive in this new world? Or will they all succumb to the zombie infection? If you're a fan of all things zombie, then you don't want to miss out on Infected, the first installment in this gripping series. Grab your copy now and join the fight for survival. Because in a world ruled by the undead, only the strongest will make it out alive.
“This story is better than anything Hollywood puts out.”
“Well-crafted in the same genre of ‘Last of Us.’”
“This is just awesome!!!”
“This adrenaline-fueled journey is definitely not one to miss out on.”
“I look forward eagerly to the following books in the series.”
“I highly recommend the book for fans of zombie books and games.”
“The author’s descriptiveness had me feeling like I was directly experiencing the events.”
“The sense of growing danger and the air of anxiety lingers with each chapter.”
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 2, 2024
About the author
Michael Kelso
38 books57 followersAuthor of books and Creepypastas. Former corrections Officer. My newest book, (Dark Tales of the Strange and Bizarre) is my latest short horror story book. I’ve also published 2 crime/mystery novels based in a prison, a YA novel, a children’s horror book ALA Goosebumps, 2 domestic thrillers, along with several short horror story collections. My most popular books are ‘Misadventures of a Cryptid Hunter’ (which won the 2024 Hollywood Book Festival in the Wild Card category) and my 'Dark Tales of Cryptids' series. Currently working on my upcoming series of zombie novels. Some of my stories have been narrated by YouTubers, garnering over 6 million views.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
October 22, 2024
I really liked how Kelso captured the desperate scrabble to keep things business as usual, things didn't so much fall apart into chaos as they eroded in it. It had an air of plausibility, but it was also treated with a healthy dose of good humor that was really enjoyable.
One of the characters we follow for a good part of the book is imprisoned following a DUI and I appreciated Kelso's human approach to incarcerated people, I was surprised to learn that he is a former corrections officer.
I had a few minor issues with the pacing and the tone in this one, sometimes it felt like the story just stopped taking itself seriously, which isn't necessarily a bad thing for a zombpoc, and while it gave me b movie vibes sometimes it just threw me off. That being said, at the end of the day it was a quick read with compelling characters and an interesting if not entirely novel take on the zombie genre.
One of the characters we follow for a good part of the book is imprisoned following a DUI and I appreciated Kelso's human approach to incarcerated people, I was surprised to learn that he is a former corrections officer.
I had a few minor issues with the pacing and the tone in this one, sometimes it felt like the story just stopped taking itself seriously, which isn't necessarily a bad thing for a zombpoc, and while it gave me b movie vibes sometimes it just threw me off. That being said, at the end of the day it was a quick read with compelling characters and an interesting if not entirely novel take on the zombie genre.
September 16, 2025
I guess I'll start with what I liked about it, because unfortunately that will be the shortest part of the review...
First, I liked how he included animals being infected, as that doesn't always happen in zombie media. It makes sense that at least mammals could also be infected by the zombie thing if it's more of a biological pathogen. Having coyotes being the main spreader was interesting. I haven't read books after this one, but I could totally see infected cats and dogs as well running around, the longer the zombie apocalypse goes on.
"Don't say the 'Z' word..." Actually I like how he plays around with this trope. Some of the characters don't like to say "zombie", while others are totally all for saying "zombie". It made me wonder what the modern media would actually do in real life, if there was a zombie apocalypse. Would they see "zombie" as "problematic" like they do words such as "homeless", "illegal immigrant" and specifying any criminal's race if they are not white? Or would they totally embrace pop culture's love of zombie apocalypses and use the word "zombie" gleefully? Whatever, it was good to see a zombie book actually call them zombies. (most of the time) I hate when authors decide that their characters would never call a zombie a zombie, or use some other stupid word trying to be different or whatever.
And, um, yeah that's about it really.
So the negatives...
I did not like the characters. The women are all either Karens, aggressively snarky, or post 2015 Hollywood style "badasses" that weak pathetic male characters simp over.
The male characters don't fare much better. The deputy warden and the hospital boss are almost the same over the top, spiteful little bastards, that I almost got them confused at one point in the story. They're ridiculously bad, and there's not enough supporting reasoning for them acting the way they do towards the other characters.
Some of the dialog and writing style can be cringey. Speaking of cringe, the author actually plugs one of his own books when describing what a character's favourite recent reads were. Look, that's something that really straddles the line between amusing and lame, and is more likely to fall over on the lame side.
So I wasn't a big fan, but I did finish the book, which is actually compliment, because I'm quick to DNF books I'm not liking.
As far as zombie books go, it's ok. I've read better and I've read worse. If you like the genre, might as well try it.
If you lean left politically, there are one or two things that will make you groan, but it doesn't really have a lot of politics in it.
If you lean right politically, there's no obvious LGBT stuff or DEI stuff in it. The same thing that will make the lefties groan, might also make you groan as well.
First, I liked how he included animals being infected, as that doesn't always happen in zombie media. It makes sense that at least mammals could also be infected by the zombie thing if it's more of a biological pathogen. Having coyotes being the main spreader was interesting. I haven't read books after this one, but I could totally see infected cats and dogs as well running around, the longer the zombie apocalypse goes on.
"Don't say the 'Z' word..." Actually I like how he plays around with this trope. Some of the characters don't like to say "zombie", while others are totally all for saying "zombie". It made me wonder what the modern media would actually do in real life, if there was a zombie apocalypse. Would they see "zombie" as "problematic" like they do words such as "homeless", "illegal immigrant" and specifying any criminal's race if they are not white? Or would they totally embrace pop culture's love of zombie apocalypses and use the word "zombie" gleefully? Whatever, it was good to see a zombie book actually call them zombies. (most of the time) I hate when authors decide that their characters would never call a zombie a zombie, or use some other stupid word trying to be different or whatever.
And, um, yeah that's about it really.
So the negatives...
I did not like the characters. The women are all either Karens, aggressively snarky, or post 2015 Hollywood style "badasses" that weak pathetic male characters simp over.
The male characters don't fare much better. The deputy warden and the hospital boss are almost the same over the top, spiteful little bastards, that I almost got them confused at one point in the story. They're ridiculously bad, and there's not enough supporting reasoning for them acting the way they do towards the other characters.
Some of the dialog and writing style can be cringey. Speaking of cringe, the author actually plugs one of his own books when describing what a character's favourite recent reads were. Look, that's something that really straddles the line between amusing and lame, and is more likely to fall over on the lame side.
So I wasn't a big fan, but I did finish the book, which is actually compliment, because I'm quick to DNF books I'm not liking.
As far as zombie books go, it's ok. I've read better and I've read worse. If you like the genre, might as well try it.
If you lean left politically, there are one or two things that will make you groan, but it doesn't really have a lot of politics in it.
If you lean right politically, there's no obvious LGBT stuff or DEI stuff in it. The same thing that will make the lefties groan, might also make you groan as well.
September 8, 2024
"Infected (Book 1 of the Zombie Infection series)" by Michael Kelso is a book about the rapid outbreak of a deadly infection that transforms people into aggressive, zombie-like creatures. Suzanne, a mother in the peaceful town of Frost Creek, finds herself running for her life as her once-loving children, infected by a mysterious illness, turn into bloodthirsty monsters. Many others become infected as the disease spreads through both humans and animals. The town of Frost Creek becomes the center of chaos, with the authorities and civilians trying to comprehend the deadly force that is rapidly overtaking them. The book combines themes like medicine, science, apocalypse, mystery, and horror. Inspired by "The Walking Dead" series, Kelso creates a fresh perspective on the classic zombie tale, leaving readers expectant of what would come next.
I love this book because Kelso captures the sudden and shocking nature of a zombie outbreak so well. His writing captivates the reader from beginning to end, and his talent for creating gripping, suspenseful scenes is evident throughout the novel. Another notable aspect is how well the writer painted a picture of certain characters like Gus, clearly distinguishing between their humanity and the monstrosity that followed after infection. This part of the novel made me feel a sense of sympathy for Gus, who turned into a monster and lost his loved ones.
I did not like that the novel was like the traditional zombie horror. I had expected the writer to use an entirely different approach. Also, some characters were not well-developed. The author focused more on action and suspense, leaving little time to fully explore each character, and making the story seem fast-paced. However, this also contributed to the thrill and sense of impending danger that constantly kept me drawn in.
Overall, "Infected" delivers a terrifying and suspenseful story that keeps readers eager to see the next part of the series. I recommend this book to traditional zombie story lovers, as well as those who love mystery and horror.
I love this book because Kelso captures the sudden and shocking nature of a zombie outbreak so well. His writing captivates the reader from beginning to end, and his talent for creating gripping, suspenseful scenes is evident throughout the novel. Another notable aspect is how well the writer painted a picture of certain characters like Gus, clearly distinguishing between their humanity and the monstrosity that followed after infection. This part of the novel made me feel a sense of sympathy for Gus, who turned into a monster and lost his loved ones.
I did not like that the novel was like the traditional zombie horror. I had expected the writer to use an entirely different approach. Also, some characters were not well-developed. The author focused more on action and suspense, leaving little time to fully explore each character, and making the story seem fast-paced. However, this also contributed to the thrill and sense of impending danger that constantly kept me drawn in.
Overall, "Infected" delivers a terrifying and suspenseful story that keeps readers eager to see the next part of the series. I recommend this book to traditional zombie story lovers, as well as those who love mystery and horror.
April 4, 2025
Book Review: INFECTED by Michael Kelso
Michael Kelso’s INFECTED is a pulse-pounding entry into the zombie horror genre, delivering relentless suspense, action, and the terrifying breakdown of civilization. The novel introduces readers to Gus Swanson, an ordinary man whose quiet life on his farm takes a catastrophic turn when he unwittingly becomes patient zero for a deadly infection. What begins as an isolated incident soon spirals into a full-blown apocalypse, unleashing hordes of mindless, flesh-eating creatures on an unsuspecting world.
Kelso masterfully blends classic zombie horror with the harsh realities of human survival. While the undead provide the immediate danger, the novel explores an even darker truth—when society collapses, it’s not just the infected that pose a threat, but the desperate and ruthless survivors willing to do anything to stay alive.
Fast-paced and gripping, INFECTED is packed with tension, brutal twists, and an ever-growing sense of dread. Fans of The Walking Dead and World War Z will find themselves immersed in this thrilling first installment of the Zombie Infection series. If you're looking for a gripping survival horror novel that keeps you on the edge of your seat, INFECTED is a must-read.
Michael Kelso’s INFECTED is a pulse-pounding entry into the zombie horror genre, delivering relentless suspense, action, and the terrifying breakdown of civilization. The novel introduces readers to Gus Swanson, an ordinary man whose quiet life on his farm takes a catastrophic turn when he unwittingly becomes patient zero for a deadly infection. What begins as an isolated incident soon spirals into a full-blown apocalypse, unleashing hordes of mindless, flesh-eating creatures on an unsuspecting world.
Kelso masterfully blends classic zombie horror with the harsh realities of human survival. While the undead provide the immediate danger, the novel explores an even darker truth—when society collapses, it’s not just the infected that pose a threat, but the desperate and ruthless survivors willing to do anything to stay alive.
Fast-paced and gripping, INFECTED is packed with tension, brutal twists, and an ever-growing sense of dread. Fans of The Walking Dead and World War Z will find themselves immersed in this thrilling first installment of the Zombie Infection series. If you're looking for a gripping survival horror novel that keeps you on the edge of your seat, INFECTED is a must-read.
October 20, 2025
Just how big is this town, anyway?
Not incredibly well written. Serviceable, but cribs too much from the Walking Dead, the Undead, and others to bring anything new to the genre. Characters aren't particularly interesting so it's difficult to care whether they live or die. But the big thing is the town that is out of the way and has its own prison, has so many people six days into the outbreak that it still has hundreds of people eager to go to the mall to cash in on a blue light special. People who would have not read any newspaper or TV coverage, thought nothing of the dozens of wrecked cars lining the roads on the way TO the mall, nor the flurry of bloody people chasing other people across the parking lot of said mall, or so much noticed anything out of the ordinary on their way to get their shopping fix. Maybe Dawn of the Dead was on to something...
Not incredibly well written. Serviceable, but cribs too much from the Walking Dead, the Undead, and others to bring anything new to the genre. Characters aren't particularly interesting so it's difficult to care whether they live or die. But the big thing is the town that is out of the way and has its own prison, has so many people six days into the outbreak that it still has hundreds of people eager to go to the mall to cash in on a blue light special. People who would have not read any newspaper or TV coverage, thought nothing of the dozens of wrecked cars lining the roads on the way TO the mall, nor the flurry of bloody people chasing other people across the parking lot of said mall, or so much noticed anything out of the ordinary on their way to get their shopping fix. Maybe Dawn of the Dead was on to something...
January 13, 2026
I wanted to rate this higher because it did have some good moments. But the bad outweighed the good. The sheet ridiculousness of events and how people were obvlivious to them was astounding. The hospital is full of zombies attacking people for multiple days and people are still going on with their lives as if nothing happened? The hospital head was still oblivious to what was going on in his own hospital after a couple days? The lab tech knows how to make a vaccine? The guy with a detached arm is asked to take a number to be seen? And don’t get me started at how awful this author made nurses seem. It’s just sheer poor writing how people are going on with their lives as if nobody has put out ANY warnings of the deaths happening. Plus, add on the author’s ridiculous jabs at vaccines and his conspiracy theories. No, I don’t think I will be going on to the sequel.
October 23, 2024
Absolutely loved it!!
Bravo Mr. Kelso, I love zompoc books that show the beginning of the end. This is the way you start a zombie story.This showed from a doctors pov. A doctor trying to stop the infection but also shows just how easily it gets out of hand. Only criticism I have (and maybe it's because I have a twisted mind) and keeping in mind it's only the beginning, I want to see more clear and pronounced scenes of the zombies strength and more gore. Not that is was lacking. Just that I would love more. For all my zompoc lovers,Each chapter kept me interested and wanting more. Character development was great. I want more of john. And more of gus getting more disgusting and crazed. Seriously can't wait for book 2.
Bravo Mr. Kelso, I love zompoc books that show the beginning of the end. This is the way you start a zombie story.This showed from a doctors pov. A doctor trying to stop the infection but also shows just how easily it gets out of hand. Only criticism I have (and maybe it's because I have a twisted mind) and keeping in mind it's only the beginning, I want to see more clear and pronounced scenes of the zombies strength and more gore. Not that is was lacking. Just that I would love more. For all my zompoc lovers,Each chapter kept me interested and wanting more. Character development was great. I want more of john. And more of gus getting more disgusting and crazed. Seriously can't wait for book 2.
September 8, 2024
Fans of horror, I recommend you read "Infected,” as it is one of the best books with zombie themes.
The author captures unpredictable behaviours and the underbelly of survival. Monsters are incorporated as well as the rising threat level, and tension contributes to the steady engagement. The continuity of using descriptive writing to explain in detail events places the reader in the line of sight of the characters, thus making it very captivating.
In my opinion, this book deserves 5 stars, and I would suggest this book to those who like zombie stories and horror genres.
The author captures unpredictable behaviours and the underbelly of survival. Monsters are incorporated as well as the rising threat level, and tension contributes to the steady engagement. The continuity of using descriptive writing to explain in detail events places the reader in the line of sight of the characters, thus making it very captivating.
In my opinion, this book deserves 5 stars, and I would suggest this book to those who like zombie stories and horror genres.
September 8, 2024
As a lover of all things post-apocalyptic I had to read this book. I liked learning about the detailed and realistic background life histories of characters such as Gus which helped make me want them to live. This increased the horror and excitement of the book just owing to the diversity of the scenes. I strongly suggest that you reading this book and it gets a 5 out of 5 score from me as a horror genre book.
December 15, 2024
I got a good scare from reading this book.
Kelso wrote an admirable take on the undead genre. He made it seem all too real for my comfort. The setup was quite good and the flow of events logical and possible! Any small town could become the epicenter for the next civilization-destroying plague!
The multiple characters are what made the book seem so realistic and plausible.
4.8 stars from me because I am picky about certain things.
Kelso wrote an admirable take on the undead genre. He made it seem all too real for my comfort. The setup was quite good and the flow of events logical and possible! Any small town could become the epicenter for the next civilization-destroying plague!
The multiple characters are what made the book seem so realistic and plausible.
4.8 stars from me because I am picky about certain things.
March 28, 2025
Right-winger MAGA MORON nut writes bad Zombie book.
Right-winger MAGA MORON nut writes bad Zombie book.
Amature at best. Also every so often throws in right wing conspiracy dumbass misinformation. The worst one the writer blamed the covid pandemic on pharmaceutical companies causing the outbreak for profit. Brilliant Jethro.
Also is a vaccine denier. Meanwhile he writes a book about doctors searching for a vaccine to stop the zombie outbreak. What a dumbass.
Right-winger MAGA MORON nut writes bad Zombie book.
Amature at best. Also every so often throws in right wing conspiracy dumbass misinformation. The worst one the writer blamed the covid pandemic on pharmaceutical companies causing the outbreak for profit. Brilliant Jethro.
Also is a vaccine denier. Meanwhile he writes a book about doctors searching for a vaccine to stop the zombie outbreak. What a dumbass.
December 28, 2025
Pretty good
I'd say it's just another zombie story, however, this does have a nice difference with the way the virus is let loose.
It's set in a small town (nothing new), and the story covers less than a week. Which goes to show that much is packed into each day's tale. The characters are a strong point and the author excels at making the reader like a character, and conversely, severely dislike a character. As well as getting frustrated with the way scenarios are handled.
I'd say it's just another zombie story, however, this does have a nice difference with the way the virus is let loose.
It's set in a small town (nothing new), and the story covers less than a week. Which goes to show that much is packed into each day's tale. The characters are a strong point and the author excels at making the reader like a character, and conversely, severely dislike a character. As well as getting frustrated with the way scenarios are handled.
February 7, 2025
A page turner!
I finished this book in a few hours because I just couldn't stop! I like the new approach to a zombie infection and how well you can feel the characters. I didn't realize there wasn't immediately sequels written yet and that was the only bummer. Cannot wait for more!
I finished this book in a few hours because I just couldn't stop! I like the new approach to a zombie infection and how well you can feel the characters. I didn't realize there wasn't immediately sequels written yet and that was the only bummer. Cannot wait for more!
April 21, 2025
I have read many zombie books and I know what I like. I loved this book. It didn’t feel as long as it was. It was action packed, funny, gross, and we got to see some people rise up to be reluctant heroes and some show themselves as temporary villains. It seems like everyone in the story is doomed to be temporary one way or another. Book 1 of a series.
September 2, 2024
Infect
Frost Creek is a small town where a little accident causes an unimaginable outbreak. Dr. Tavistock and a few others battle to stop the outbreak. The infection is spreading. Unique intriguing zombie story with characters you grow to love.
Frost Creek is a small town where a little accident causes an unimaginable outbreak. Dr. Tavistock and a few others battle to stop the outbreak. The infection is spreading. Unique intriguing zombie story with characters you grow to love.
July 12, 2025
great storyline and writing
Kept me interested from the beginning. If a story and writer get me interested within the first chapter I am on to another book and author. This kept me interested. It was hard to put down. Great writing.
Kept me interested from the beginning. If a story and writer get me interested within the first chapter I am on to another book and author. This kept me interested. It was hard to put down. Great writing.
July 28, 2025
A Hectic Beginning
I enjoyed this book. I couldn't put it down. It was different, kind of scary but humorous at the same time. It went back and forth between places and events but it was well written and easy to follow. I'm looking forward to the next part.
I enjoyed this book. I couldn't put it down. It was different, kind of scary but humorous at the same time. It went back and forth between places and events but it was well written and easy to follow. I'm looking forward to the next part.
September 20, 2024
Great, Fun Read
Kelso always delivers a mix of humor and terror. If it’s by him: read it! Looking forward to the rest of this series.
Kelso always delivers a mix of humor and terror. If it’s by him: read it! Looking forward to the rest of this series.
May 17, 2025
Zombie books are hit or miss. This was like watching a movie.. Kind of reminded me of 28 weeks later.
February 19, 2026
Realistic in the fact that government officials are too slow to act to save humanity.
March 12, 2026
I’ve started a lot of Zombie series and not continued past the first book because they were so bad, this one was a vast improvement and I’ll keep going :)
March 18, 2026
“Who are you?”
“I’m the guy trying to keep this thing from spreading.”
Set in the town of Frost Creek.
It comes from deep in the ground…near the farm of Gus Swanson. 🦠
Follows police officers, doctors, administrators, prison staff, inmates, and everyday citizens.
The animals are an interesting touch; the coyotes are scary. 🫣
Not a surprise that all the various bureaucrats want nothing to do with the outbreak, but to cover their asses when TSHTF.
Dr. Martin Tevist, doing all he can…
John Little, the loyal security guard.
Dr. Nichole Kelvin, researching…racing against time to create a vaccine…
Definitely needs tightening on the editing. 💀
Quarantine Zone at the hospital; chaos in town.
Patient Zero goes on a rampage. 🩸
After all the lies and disinformation spread about Covid, the rural townsfolk are understandably wary.
Quite plot heavy; not much in the way of character development. Many POVs, but no true deep dives.
On to book two.
“Please, John, tell me you got him. Tell me tomorrow this nightmare will be over.”
“I’m the guy trying to keep this thing from spreading.”
Set in the town of Frost Creek.
It comes from deep in the ground…near the farm of Gus Swanson. 🦠
Follows police officers, doctors, administrators, prison staff, inmates, and everyday citizens.
The animals are an interesting touch; the coyotes are scary. 🫣
Not a surprise that all the various bureaucrats want nothing to do with the outbreak, but to cover their asses when TSHTF.
Dr. Martin Tevist, doing all he can…
John Little, the loyal security guard.
Dr. Nichole Kelvin, researching…racing against time to create a vaccine…
Definitely needs tightening on the editing. 💀
Quarantine Zone at the hospital; chaos in town.
Patient Zero goes on a rampage. 🩸
After all the lies and disinformation spread about Covid, the rural townsfolk are understandably wary.
Quite plot heavy; not much in the way of character development. Many POVs, but no true deep dives.
On to book two.
“Please, John, tell me you got him. Tell me tomorrow this nightmare will be over.”
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews