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Last Mom Standing
When Jane Kovak trades her cheating ex-husband and a cushy city life for an old Victorian farmhouse in the mountains of Virginia, she’s prepared to face some challenges. Sulky teenager? Check. Leaky roof? No problem. Territorial chickens? Hmm, that wasn't in the real estate listing. A misogynistic neighbor with boundary issues? That’s just great. A zombie apocalypse? Now wait a damn minute...
One day Jane is juggling her remote design job, single parenthood, and an assortment of quirky new neighbors. The next she’s collecting stray kids and fighting off the infected with a hammer. Now the power is out, supplies are running low, and winter is setting in.
Fun times at the End Times.
Who says you can't have it all? In this warm, witty tale of family, survival, and a touch of romance, one woman proves that when the world ends, tough moms don't just survive—they thrive. Last Mom Standing is perfect for readers who like their end-of-the-world scenarios served with a side of humor and hope.
One day Jane is juggling her remote design job, single parenthood, and an assortment of quirky new neighbors. The next she’s collecting stray kids and fighting off the infected with a hammer. Now the power is out, supplies are running low, and winter is setting in.
Fun times at the End Times.
Who says you can't have it all? In this warm, witty tale of family, survival, and a touch of romance, one woman proves that when the world ends, tough moms don't just survive—they thrive. Last Mom Standing is perfect for readers who like their end-of-the-world scenarios served with a side of humor and hope.
309 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2025
314 people are currently reading
199 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
September 25, 2025
THIS IS NOT YOUR NORMAL POST-APOCALYPTIC BOOK...IT'S SO MUCH MORE
☆☆☆☆☆
Last Mom Standing by Mary Jane Owen is a post-apocalyptic zombie apocalypse story of a single divorced mother of two young girls who after her piece of crap ex-husband ran away with his secretary (a twenty-something bimbo) moves herself and her girls to a rural house up in the mountains of Virginia outside a small town. Before they can truly get settled in and shortly after the start of school what is to be believed as a virus hits worldwide bringing everyone and everything to their knees. Jane, Frances, and Hillary have to change their way of thinking from city gals to country gals in a short time.
Jane is a strong woman who is a loving and protective mother, friend, and neighbor, who is kind and compassionate, smart, and funny. The family banter between the two girls and Jane will definitely bring a smile to your face or outright make you laugh.
This is the first book that I have read by Mary Jane Owen and I can easily tell you it was well-written, humorous, touching at times, and sad at other times, and it had just a little bit of action that kept me interested throughout. Even being a post-apocalyptic zombie story, it's not as gory as most. And the ending, will really surprise you.
I really enjoyed reading this book and hope you too will find yourself enjoying it.
Quotes:
"Are you kidding? We're country folk now. We need to learn to live off the land." "Worst. Mom. Ever."
"I'm not having a breakdown." I'm having a perfectly reasonable reaction to an unreasonable situation."
☆☆☆☆☆
Last Mom Standing by Mary Jane Owen is a post-apocalyptic zombie apocalypse story of a single divorced mother of two young girls who after her piece of crap ex-husband ran away with his secretary (a twenty-something bimbo) moves herself and her girls to a rural house up in the mountains of Virginia outside a small town. Before they can truly get settled in and shortly after the start of school what is to be believed as a virus hits worldwide bringing everyone and everything to their knees. Jane, Frances, and Hillary have to change their way of thinking from city gals to country gals in a short time.
Jane is a strong woman who is a loving and protective mother, friend, and neighbor, who is kind and compassionate, smart, and funny. The family banter between the two girls and Jane will definitely bring a smile to your face or outright make you laugh.
This is the first book that I have read by Mary Jane Owen and I can easily tell you it was well-written, humorous, touching at times, and sad at other times, and it had just a little bit of action that kept me interested throughout. Even being a post-apocalyptic zombie story, it's not as gory as most. And the ending, will really surprise you.
I really enjoyed reading this book and hope you too will find yourself enjoying it.
Quotes:
"Are you kidding? We're country folk now. We need to learn to live off the land." "Worst. Mom. Ever."
"I'm not having a breakdown." I'm having a perfectly reasonable reaction to an unreasonable situation."
September 23, 2025
"I'm really good with babies, I've never dropped one."
Owen proves that you can write annoying kids in a way that makes them feel real and not just like machines that exist to torment any adult in their vicinity (*pokes at Hum with a stick* see I told you it didn't have to be like that!). Life with teens/pre-teens can be annoying but it's also funny and they can surprise you with how resourceful they can be, Owen absolutely nailed that aspect.
Jane, our MC, has a sense of humor, a teenage daughter who thinks she's embarrassing, a demon (child) named Hilary who's likely to burn the house down but will do so with charm, and an apocalypse on her hands, what's and apocalypse when you've already been through so many Zoom meetings? While there are a few scenes that will pull at your heartstrings the humor really does the heavy lifting in this one.
The characters were charming and easy to root for, I liked that it centered a very motherly person and a coterie of unlikely survivors. Were things occasionally a little too convenient? Yes, but I had fun, so I didn't really care much.
My one big gripe with this book was the ending which felt rushed and like it mostly (big spoiler ahead do not read unless you want the ending spoiled)
Owen proves that you can write annoying kids in a way that makes them feel real and not just like machines that exist to torment any adult in their vicinity (*pokes at Hum with a stick* see I told you it didn't have to be like that!). Life with teens/pre-teens can be annoying but it's also funny and they can surprise you with how resourceful they can be, Owen absolutely nailed that aspect.
Jane, our MC, has a sense of humor, a teenage daughter who thinks she's embarrassing, a demon (child) named Hilary who's likely to burn the house down but will do so with charm, and an apocalypse on her hands, what's and apocalypse when you've already been through so many Zoom meetings? While there are a few scenes that will pull at your heartstrings the humor really does the heavy lifting in this one.
The characters were charming and easy to root for, I liked that it centered a very motherly person and a coterie of unlikely survivors. Were things occasionally a little too convenient? Yes, but I had fun, so I didn't really care much.
My one big gripe with this book was the ending which felt rushed and like it mostly (big spoiler ahead do not read unless you want the ending spoiled)
October 23, 2025
I have a tendency to go for hardcore horror, especially when reading about extinction level events like a zombie apocalypse or EMP (electromagnetic pulse), where the preppers get to demonstrate their self-sufficiency. However, this is not that type of horror. In fact, the horror is a little light for a Zompoc novel. Those novels tend to be heavy on the blood and gore.
Last Mom Standing is more a feminist empowerment narrative (not a bad thing) than a splatter punk, post-apocalyptic novel. Last Mom Standing takes our dear longsuffering mothers and places one in an accustomed, postmodern, traditional milieu and then just adding one little element of apocalyptic wrinkle.
Jane moves to a Virginia farmhouse in order to survive her divorce, live more intentionally with her girls, and work remotely. Sure, she deals with the struggles and joys of single parenthood, but her children are becoming fully cognizant of their mother's strengths and weaknesses. Then, along comes the apocalypse to throw a wrench into the adjustments already being made. There is some minor horror and gore, but the reason to read this is for the heart-felt moments.
Like I said, there's more hope than hurt; more heart than horror. There is also the humor of everyday life in a single-parent home. Sometimes you cry, and other times you laugh, but you never give your kids an excuse to just quit. Fun book that I did not expect to enjoy.
Last Mom Standing is more a feminist empowerment narrative (not a bad thing) than a splatter punk, post-apocalyptic novel. Last Mom Standing takes our dear longsuffering mothers and places one in an accustomed, postmodern, traditional milieu and then just adding one little element of apocalyptic wrinkle.
Jane moves to a Virginia farmhouse in order to survive her divorce, live more intentionally with her girls, and work remotely. Sure, she deals with the struggles and joys of single parenthood, but her children are becoming fully cognizant of their mother's strengths and weaknesses. Then, along comes the apocalypse to throw a wrench into the adjustments already being made. There is some minor horror and gore, but the reason to read this is for the heart-felt moments.
Like I said, there's more hope than hurt; more heart than horror. There is also the humor of everyday life in a single-parent home. Sometimes you cry, and other times you laugh, but you never give your kids an excuse to just quit. Fun book that I did not expect to enjoy.
June 11, 2025
4.5 stars ⭐️ (Rounded up)
Last Mom Standing is a suspenseful family drama set against the backdrop of a zombie apocalypse.
The story follows Jane Kovak, a recently divorced mother who leaves the city with her two daughters, Hillary and Francis, to start anew in a Victorian farmhouse nestled in the mountains of Virginia. Expecting challenges from her teenage daughters and adapting to life in a rural area, Jane is unprepared for the ultimate test of survival: a fast-spreading illness that turns humans into zombies. As the world crumbles around her, Jane’s resilience and maternal instincts are put to the ultimate test!
The story is a mishmash of genres, from comedy to horror to romance to heartwarming family drama. There’s really something for everyone over the course of this highly original story. Mary Jane Owen also explores themes of tested motherhood, resiliency in extreme circumstances, and personal growth. The story maintains a lighthearted and witty tone, giving readers a refreshing take on the post-apocalyptic genre. Jane’s journey is not just about surviving zombies but also about rediscovering herself and forging stronger bonds with her daughters.
Jane is a relatable and intriguing protagonist. She has a very close bond with her daughters and speaks to them with respect and an abundance of sarcasm. Her bitterness towards her ex-husband for abandoning her and her children is evident throughout the story, but she keeps her feelings closed off in an effort to create a positive new start for them all—this, along with her ridiculously dry sense of humor, makes her very likeable. Her quick ability to adapt from a busy city-dwelling mom to a rural survivor further showcases her tenacity and strength of character!
Jane’s romantic subplot with police officer Hector is a nice distraction from all the chaos in the story. When Jane begins to feel attraction towards him, she contemplates it in hilarious inner monologues, and we see another side to her character—suddenly she’s not only the super parent navigating her children through a deadly apocalypse, but she’s also a woman reawakening her female desire. Hector is the perfect gentleman, and his advances towards Jane are subtle as they develop a strong connection through meaningful conversation and shared outings on his motorcycle while investigating the hostile scene in town or getting supplies. Hector also makes an admirable effort with Jane’s children, and they develop a mutual respect for each other, which makes his involvement with their mother much easier to accept.
There are also some compelling side characters, including Jane’s Spanish-speaking neighbor, who, in a twist of fate, turns out to be Hector’s father, and Clive, the villain of the story, who is hell-bent on killing off the zombie-like humans. With all the interesting characters and the multi-layered plot, there’s never a dull moment in this story!
Owen’s writing is fresh, witty, and concise. She seamlessly integrates elements of humor, heartfelt storytelling, and horror to create a story that readers will find difficult to put down and that will linger after the final pages. With the novel’s short length and fast-paced narrative, it’s very easy to binge-read in a single sitting!
Overall, Last Mom Standing is a really unique addition to the zombie apocalypse genre. The novel showcases the author’s talent in weaving together a multilayered story that crosses genres and that gives readers just enough of everything to make it compelling and highly entertaining. For readers who enjoy comedy, post-apocalyptic horror, romance, and fearless female leads, this novel is a must-read!
Last Mom Standing is a suspenseful family drama set against the backdrop of a zombie apocalypse.
The story follows Jane Kovak, a recently divorced mother who leaves the city with her two daughters, Hillary and Francis, to start anew in a Victorian farmhouse nestled in the mountains of Virginia. Expecting challenges from her teenage daughters and adapting to life in a rural area, Jane is unprepared for the ultimate test of survival: a fast-spreading illness that turns humans into zombies. As the world crumbles around her, Jane’s resilience and maternal instincts are put to the ultimate test!
The story is a mishmash of genres, from comedy to horror to romance to heartwarming family drama. There’s really something for everyone over the course of this highly original story. Mary Jane Owen also explores themes of tested motherhood, resiliency in extreme circumstances, and personal growth. The story maintains a lighthearted and witty tone, giving readers a refreshing take on the post-apocalyptic genre. Jane’s journey is not just about surviving zombies but also about rediscovering herself and forging stronger bonds with her daughters.
Jane is a relatable and intriguing protagonist. She has a very close bond with her daughters and speaks to them with respect and an abundance of sarcasm. Her bitterness towards her ex-husband for abandoning her and her children is evident throughout the story, but she keeps her feelings closed off in an effort to create a positive new start for them all—this, along with her ridiculously dry sense of humor, makes her very likeable. Her quick ability to adapt from a busy city-dwelling mom to a rural survivor further showcases her tenacity and strength of character!
Jane’s romantic subplot with police officer Hector is a nice distraction from all the chaos in the story. When Jane begins to feel attraction towards him, she contemplates it in hilarious inner monologues, and we see another side to her character—suddenly she’s not only the super parent navigating her children through a deadly apocalypse, but she’s also a woman reawakening her female desire. Hector is the perfect gentleman, and his advances towards Jane are subtle as they develop a strong connection through meaningful conversation and shared outings on his motorcycle while investigating the hostile scene in town or getting supplies. Hector also makes an admirable effort with Jane’s children, and they develop a mutual respect for each other, which makes his involvement with their mother much easier to accept.
There are also some compelling side characters, including Jane’s Spanish-speaking neighbor, who, in a twist of fate, turns out to be Hector’s father, and Clive, the villain of the story, who is hell-bent on killing off the zombie-like humans. With all the interesting characters and the multi-layered plot, there’s never a dull moment in this story!
Owen’s writing is fresh, witty, and concise. She seamlessly integrates elements of humor, heartfelt storytelling, and horror to create a story that readers will find difficult to put down and that will linger after the final pages. With the novel’s short length and fast-paced narrative, it’s very easy to binge-read in a single sitting!
Overall, Last Mom Standing is a really unique addition to the zombie apocalypse genre. The novel showcases the author’s talent in weaving together a multilayered story that crosses genres and that gives readers just enough of everything to make it compelling and highly entertaining. For readers who enjoy comedy, post-apocalyptic horror, romance, and fearless female leads, this novel is a must-read!
July 13, 2025
A kind of apocalypse
This is the Hallmark channel's idea of science fiction. But not a bad story. Just no real blood and guts. LOL It's a pretty entertaining read with some good humor. Just no blood and guts, know what I mean???????
This is the Hallmark channel's idea of science fiction. But not a bad story. Just no real blood and guts. LOL It's a pretty entertaining read with some good humor. Just no blood and guts, know what I mean???????
September 8, 2025
Different & Awesome!
Well developed characters, great dialog, interesting and unique storyline, zombies, a touch of romance thrown in, and a happy ending? This book is everything I've ever dreamt of in a book! I will be looking up the author to see if her other books are just as good!
Well developed characters, great dialog, interesting and unique storyline, zombies, a touch of romance thrown in, and a happy ending? This book is everything I've ever dreamt of in a book! I will be looking up the author to see if her other books are just as good!
September 7, 2025
mom powers rule
In the zombie apocalypse . Who would know that eyes in The back of your head and the ability to hear a whispered secret on the other side of the house would come in handy when the pandemic hits and an emergency y tampon run MUSt be made?
In the zombie apocalypse . Who would know that eyes in The back of your head and the ability to hear a whispered secret on the other side of the house would come in handy when the pandemic hits and an emergency y tampon run MUSt be made?
December 11, 2025
I found jane to be so normal and that was so refreshing! she is funny, witty and protective of her kids (and really anyone else that shows up🤭) I really enjoyed this one!!
July 16, 2025
Funny and poignant, an odd but decidedly refreshing post-apocalyptic areas
I didn’t expect humor paired with surviving the apocalypse, but The Last Mom Standing brings it. This book had heart, hilarity and a big touch of courage. Jane, a single mother of two daughters, realizes she’s in the apocalypse almost by accident. The family quickly takes in two more teenaged girls and a dog abandoned when his owners are among the infected. I loved Jane’s humorous, oftentimes self-deprecating and a touch sarcastic approach to everything happening around them. The girls all had distinct personalities and I felt like I lived there with them, dealing with impossible neighbors, sad situations, and difficult survival odds. I can wholeheartedly recommend this book even to readers who don’t usually read the genre. I’m not a huge fan of the zombie apocalypse sub-genre, but thoroughly enjoyed this unusual spin on the trope.
I didn’t expect humor paired with surviving the apocalypse, but The Last Mom Standing brings it. This book had heart, hilarity and a big touch of courage. Jane, a single mother of two daughters, realizes she’s in the apocalypse almost by accident. The family quickly takes in two more teenaged girls and a dog abandoned when his owners are among the infected. I loved Jane’s humorous, oftentimes self-deprecating and a touch sarcastic approach to everything happening around them. The girls all had distinct personalities and I felt like I lived there with them, dealing with impossible neighbors, sad situations, and difficult survival odds. I can wholeheartedly recommend this book even to readers who don’t usually read the genre. I’m not a huge fan of the zombie apocalypse sub-genre, but thoroughly enjoyed this unusual spin on the trope.
April 23, 2025
There is such a thing as a cozy apocalypse now.
I gobbled this book up yesterday, and it was without a doubt one of my favorite books.
The mother is so relatable because the way she acts with her kids is EXACTLY how I act with mine, and I found it refreshing and hilarious. It gave me material for my snotty teen.
Jane is a divorced mother living in the boonies, learning country life when the world goes to shit. Strapped with a wooden bat, a spunky 8 year old and a typical teenager, the world is her oyster.
I gobbled this book up yesterday, and it was without a doubt one of my favorite books.
The mother is so relatable because the way she acts with her kids is EXACTLY how I act with mine, and I found it refreshing and hilarious. It gave me material for my snotty teen.
Jane is a divorced mother living in the boonies, learning country life when the world goes to shit. Strapped with a wooden bat, a spunky 8 year old and a typical teenager, the world is her oyster.
September 5, 2025
-Loved the writing style. I don’t normally care for 1st person pov but this one was done fantastically.
-Dialogue was well written & MFC has a hilarious repertoire with her daughters.
-HEA
-No spice/smut, light romance but didn’t overwhelm the plot
-a little rushed in places
-definitely a new spin on the zombie apocalypse. I like that they weren’t actual zombies, it made it more realistic
-very, very light on the suspense
Overall, it was a quick easy read & I would recommend it
-Dialogue was well written & MFC has a hilarious repertoire with her daughters.
-HEA
-No spice/smut, light romance but didn’t overwhelm the plot
-a little rushed in places
-definitely a new spin on the zombie apocalypse. I like that they weren’t actual zombies, it made it more realistic
-very, very light on the suspense
Overall, it was a quick easy read & I would recommend it
September 21, 2025
4.5 🌟 I wiah this books was longer!
September 26, 2025
"Just another Tuesday in the apocalypse," Taylor said cheerfully.
"It's Thursday," Ivy corrected her.
Frances frowned. “I’m pretty sure it’s Wednesday.”
"Time is meaningless now," Hillary declared. "We measure days in zombie encounters."
This was such a fun read! I've been dying for more post apocalyptic romances so this was an instant yes when it was recommended to me.
Sadly, it focused less on the romance than I hoped for. There was zero development in that department on page, it all happened off page and we just saw little signs that attraction was growing between them here and there.
Despite that, I still liked it because some of my favorite tropes are the found family, adoption/caretaker, and family bonds tropes. This book was full of those.
And the slightly dry, slightly ironic humor was perfect.
"Hillary, maybe introduce yourself before demanding to hold people's babies?"
"I'm Hillary," my youngest announced proudly. "I'm eight and I know how to make a flamethrower."
I was also really happy with the "zombie" storyline. It's very different from most zombie storylines, and was a nice change.
Some notes:
Despite what the cover alludes to, this is not a badass zombie unaliving mom in the zombie apocalypse story. I still enjoyed it though because it had a valuable different take on the whole situation.
Ends on a HFN in the romance department but not in an unsatisfying way, it just wasn't focused on the romance.
Closed door romance.
---
From downstairs came the sound of breaking glass followed by Hillary's voice: "Nobody panic! The kitchen is only slightly on fire!"
"It's Thursday," Ivy corrected her.
Frances frowned. “I’m pretty sure it’s Wednesday.”
"Time is meaningless now," Hillary declared. "We measure days in zombie encounters."
This was such a fun read! I've been dying for more post apocalyptic romances so this was an instant yes when it was recommended to me.
Sadly, it focused less on the romance than I hoped for. There was zero development in that department on page, it all happened off page and we just saw little signs that attraction was growing between them here and there.
Despite that, I still liked it because some of my favorite tropes are the found family, adoption/caretaker, and family bonds tropes. This book was full of those.
And the slightly dry, slightly ironic humor was perfect.
"Hillary, maybe introduce yourself before demanding to hold people's babies?"
"I'm Hillary," my youngest announced proudly. "I'm eight and I know how to make a flamethrower."
I was also really happy with the "zombie" storyline. It's very different from most zombie storylines, and was a nice change.
Some notes:
Despite what the cover alludes to, this is not a badass zombie unaliving mom in the zombie apocalypse story. I still enjoyed it though because it had a valuable different take on the whole situation.
Ends on a HFN in the romance department but not in an unsatisfying way, it just wasn't focused on the romance.
Closed door romance.
---
From downstairs came the sound of breaking glass followed by Hillary's voice: "Nobody panic! The kitchen is only slightly on fire!"
August 29, 2025
The Apocalypse Meets Cute
A single mom, her daughters, and their friends face the challenges of what appears to be a zombie apocalypse. The banter between Jane and her girls was brilliant! Thanks for the laughs and smiles Mary Jane Owen! Great palette cleanser from darker apocalyptic books. Short, cute, fun read!
A single mom, her daughters, and their friends face the challenges of what appears to be a zombie apocalypse. The banter between Jane and her girls was brilliant! Thanks for the laughs and smiles Mary Jane Owen! Great palette cleanser from darker apocalyptic books. Short, cute, fun read!
August 2, 2025
An Amazing Story!
Last Mom Standing is an absolutely hilarious and thrilling semi-dystopian adventure. This is not your typical zombie outbreak story. It's more like "outbreak" than "night of the living dead". It's very well written, with great details and creative situations. The characters are both realistic and relatable personalities, who either mesh or clash together in the most entertaining ways. This book is a standalone story with a happy enough ending, that you'll really enjoy reading.
A Highly Recommended Read!
Last Mom Standing is an absolutely hilarious and thrilling semi-dystopian adventure. This is not your typical zombie outbreak story. It's more like "outbreak" than "night of the living dead". It's very well written, with great details and creative situations. The characters are both realistic and relatable personalities, who either mesh or clash together in the most entertaining ways. This book is a standalone story with a happy enough ending, that you'll really enjoy reading.
A Highly Recommended Read!
July 24, 2025
Jane, a newly divorced mother, and her two daughters, Frances and Hilary move to an older house in the country when a new virus hits the world. Frances, the eldest, is attending high school and is going through the "I am so embarrassed by my mom" phase. She has made friends with two girls named Ivy and Taylor. Hilary is the "wild child" that chases chickens, does experiments with food, and at times is a bit contrarian. There is quite a bit of humor in this book, which takes place during a "zombie apocalypse". This was a quick and funny read.
September 29, 2025
FACEBOOK AD
I saw an ad for this and thought, alright I'll bite.
However, this is not a zombie book (in the same way 28 days later is not a zombie virus). A rage virus that they liken to made cow disease because of prions. But then it seems that the book doesn't understand how prions work.
The characters feel too flat. They attempt humor, but no children talk like the way these ones do. Honestly, there's too many attempts at humor.
I would call this cozy horror, but also nothing happens in the book. At least nothing is expanded on. You have the crazy guy killing people, but there are no consequences to it. There's the drug house, but we never learn what happens to them.
The cop and mom flirt, but it also feels forced as no action really brings them together other than one supply run that isn't even dangerous.
This book would have benefited from more horror.
The ending was stupid. It felt as if everything was retconned at the end.
I saw an ad for this and thought, alright I'll bite.
However, this is not a zombie book (in the same way 28 days later is not a zombie virus). A rage virus that they liken to made cow disease because of prions. But then it seems that the book doesn't understand how prions work.
The characters feel too flat. They attempt humor, but no children talk like the way these ones do. Honestly, there's too many attempts at humor.
I would call this cozy horror, but also nothing happens in the book. At least nothing is expanded on. You have the crazy guy killing people, but there are no consequences to it. There's the drug house, but we never learn what happens to them.
The cop and mom flirt, but it also feels forced as no action really brings them together other than one supply run that isn't even dangerous.
This book would have benefited from more horror.
The ending was stupid. It felt as if everything was retconned at the end.
March 22, 2025
Is there such a genre as cozy apocalyptic? If there wasn’t before, there is now thanks to Mary Jane Owen. When people start exhibiting strange behaviors it’s up to newly divorced Jane to protect her daughters from a zombie apocalypse. Fortunately for her, she recently moved out of the city to a home on the mountain which provides relative safety apart from her crazy neighbor Clyde. This book has the suspense of an apocalyptic thriller but is packed with humor and a bit of romance also. Mary Jane does a great job capturing the sarcastic banter between Jane and her daughters. This was a quick enjoyable read that I would recommend to anyone who likes the feel of a cozy mystery but wants a little zombie hysteria mixed in. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 31, 2025
A stunning story ! I loved the mom, she was wacky, funny, tough when she HAD to be and knew how to get things done when she didn't know how to get things done ! Her conversations with her family were funny, and direct ! Even her conversations with her self were funny ! Her boldness at times like confronting her scary, insane acting neighbor surprised herself and others. And scared her kids, and the kids and dog that she adopted along the way ! Later, even wanted to pee her pants about that !
And Hector, he added romance to the story but that doesn't come along later in the story, although the family does meet his father first !!
Violence? Well, yes. Apocalypse anyone ? The author did keep it to the minimum though.
I'm going to read this story again so that means I'm keeping it !
I already left a review on Amazon today !
And Hector, he added romance to the story but that doesn't come along later in the story, although the family does meet his father first !!
Violence? Well, yes. Apocalypse anyone ? The author did keep it to the minimum though.
I'm going to read this story again so that means I'm keeping it !
I already left a review on Amazon today !
March 22, 2025
This book was just SO GOOD!!
Imagine you're trying to adapt to your life as a newly divorced mom of two. Dealing with chicken entering your backyard, an asshole of a neighbor, a teenager and a hyperactive 8 year old when the apocalypse starts.
Well, that sounds like tough times.
Jane is that mother. And can I tell you my happiness to read about a 40 year old mom?
Jane is a wonderful woman, opening her door to other teenagers, and other people in need. Her empathy and generosity made it for me.
But my favorite character has to be Hillary, the 8 yo kid just won my heart and had me laughing so hard I think I peed myself a little (don't tell anyone!).
Imagine you're trying to adapt to your life as a newly divorced mom of two. Dealing with chicken entering your backyard, an asshole of a neighbor, a teenager and a hyperactive 8 year old when the apocalypse starts.
Well, that sounds like tough times.
Jane is that mother. And can I tell you my happiness to read about a 40 year old mom?
Jane is a wonderful woman, opening her door to other teenagers, and other people in need. Her empathy and generosity made it for me.
But my favorite character has to be Hillary, the 8 yo kid just won my heart and had me laughing so hard I think I peed myself a little (don't tell anyone!).
July 26, 2025
definitely a keeper
Well, I really like this book. I love Jane witty comments and the sass have the interactions with her daughters are right on. Snarky teenager and a 8 yo who loves blue! There was some drama, a little violence, great entertaining book. Fun for all ages. As somebody said if lifetime had a zombie book this would be it! More please
Well, I really like this book. I love Jane witty comments and the sass have the interactions with her daughters are right on. Snarky teenager and a 8 yo who loves blue! There was some drama, a little violence, great entertaining book. Fun for all ages. As somebody said if lifetime had a zombie book this would be it! More please
October 9, 2025
This was an okay "zombie" apocalypse read. it was more funny with building of family vibes then scary or even romantic. But to be fair I don't think it's in the romantic genre even with the male love interest. I'm trying to think back of what all happened in this book and I'm coming up blank...not a lot of major moments just a lot of character connections. i wouldn't say this is particularly memorable for a story but it did keep my attention in the moment.
June 11, 2025
Fun & entertaining
This was a really cute book that I very much enjoyed! It had scary moments interspersed with humor. The characters are really fun, especially Jane. Parents will identify with snarky teen attitudes and precocious younger siblings. All in all, a fun story dealing with the zombie apocalypse!
This was a really cute book that I very much enjoyed! It had scary moments interspersed with humor. The characters are really fun, especially Jane. Parents will identify with snarky teen attitudes and precocious younger siblings. All in all, a fun story dealing with the zombie apocalypse!
April 13, 2025
Best "Zombie" book ever
I want to be Jane when I grow up. She stepped up and held her ground. I wish I lived next door to her and the girls, you know, just in case. This was so good, I stayed up all night reading it.
I want to be Jane when I grow up. She stepped up and held her ground. I wish I lived next door to her and the girls, you know, just in case. This was so good, I stayed up all night reading it.
October 8, 2025
This book was listed as a post apocalyptic book but it definitely is not. It should be listed as a romance novel. It was a very disappointing read and extremely unrealistic. I mean come on when someone is shot in the head they do not come back to life 3 weeks later!
July 5, 2025
Not your usual apocalypse.
Well, you don't apocalyptic novels like this, the usual world going apocalypse, until it stops being apocalyptic. Interesting read, no sequel.
Well, you don't apocalyptic novels like this, the usual world going apocalypse, until it stops being apocalyptic. Interesting read, no sequel.
October 29, 2025
5/5 Stars
Someone else called this a cozy apocalypse story, and I can't help but agree 100%. It was such a nice read, very light on blood and gore and light on the romance.
The best thing about this book was the realism. No, the protagonist does not go on a zombie killing spree. The zombies are seen as sick people, not supernatural monsters. The way Jane and the other characters viewed the zombies was refreshing and real. There is empathy and hope, but not to the point where characters are rendered useless through annoyingly bad decisions. The story is more about found family and keeping your compassion and critical thinking during an apocalyptic event. It's humorous, with the kids being just the right amount of cute and annoying like most kids are.
I would recommend anyone to read this who needs a horror palette cleanser, or if you're tired of pessimistic zombie novels and would like something different.
Someone else called this a cozy apocalypse story, and I can't help but agree 100%. It was such a nice read, very light on blood and gore and light on the romance.
The best thing about this book was the realism. No, the protagonist does not go on a zombie killing spree. The zombies are seen as sick people, not supernatural monsters. The way Jane and the other characters viewed the zombies was refreshing and real. There is empathy and hope, but not to the point where characters are rendered useless through annoyingly bad decisions. The story is more about found family and keeping your compassion and critical thinking during an apocalyptic event. It's humorous, with the kids being just the right amount of cute and annoying like most kids are.
I would recommend anyone to read this who needs a horror palette cleanser, or if you're tired of pessimistic zombie novels and would like something different.
March 16, 2025
This was a well-crafted book with believable, well-developed characters. The story was enjoyable and easy for me to read; and hard to put down. It is a story about a solo mom dealing with all that comes with that who then, as the cherry on top, finds herself in the midst of a kind of apocalyptic-like event. This book is a real shout out to our solo mom heroes everywhere.
For those looking for something a little different and hopeful in the often dark and despairing pandemic/apocalyptic space, then this is a good one for you.
I will be interested to see if there is a sequel and whether the vibe changes - maybe not, but I can easily imagine a flowers and sunbeams apocalypse being following by something a little stormier.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
For those looking for something a little different and hopeful in the often dark and despairing pandemic/apocalyptic space, then this is a good one for you.
I will be interested to see if there is a sequel and whether the vibe changes - maybe not, but I can easily imagine a flowers and sunbeams apocalypse being following by something a little stormier.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 15, 2025
It was a cute, fast read maybe a good palate cleanser or to break you from a reading slump. Storyline is surface, w/o many details & the 1st page had a huge medical inaccuracy but it’s a cute read witty banter.
So Jane’s trash of a husband runs off with his secretary (classic), and instead of falling apart, she packs up and moves to a cute little house in the country to start over. Honestly, good for her.
But just as she’s getting her life back together — surprise! — a virus hits and starts turning people into zombies. The cities collapse, chaos takes over, and suddenly Jane’s not just reinventing herself… she’s fighting to survive and protect her kids.
Somehow, in the middle of all the madness, she finds strength, purpose, and even a bit of unexpected romance.
So Jane’s trash of a husband runs off with his secretary (classic), and instead of falling apart, she packs up and moves to a cute little house in the country to start over. Honestly, good for her.
But just as she’s getting her life back together — surprise! — a virus hits and starts turning people into zombies. The cities collapse, chaos takes over, and suddenly Jane’s not just reinventing herself… she’s fighting to survive and protect her kids.
Somehow, in the middle of all the madness, she finds strength, purpose, and even a bit of unexpected romance.
October 24, 2025
After a divorce, a woman and her two daughters move to a farmhouse in the country. They're doing well, until the spread of a virus.
If by chance you're looking for a cozy zombie novel, this is for you. The focus of the story is mostly on the mother and daughters, with some great side characters. I loved the relationships! The teen daughter could easily have been a snotty, eyerolling brat, but she wasn't. I actually liked her very much. The younger child made me laugh.
Of course there's violence, but it's not very graphic, it's mostly sad. Expect to have your heartstings pulled. If you want hardcore prepper stuff, this won't be for you.
For me, the ending was a bit rushed, and tied up too neatly, but overall enjoyable.
If by chance you're looking for a cozy zombie novel, this is for you. The focus of the story is mostly on the mother and daughters, with some great side characters. I loved the relationships! The teen daughter could easily have been a snotty, eyerolling brat, but she wasn't. I actually liked her very much. The younger child made me laugh.
Of course there's violence, but it's not very graphic, it's mostly sad. Expect to have your heartstings pulled. If you want hardcore prepper stuff, this won't be for you.
For me, the ending was a bit rushed, and tied up too neatly, but overall enjoyable.
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