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Survival
Some days, the only plan is survival.
When Sarah escapes from her brutal abductors, she promises to return to rescue her twin sister, but with the walking dead invading Fort Worth, TX, she is forced to rely on a competitive coworker who made her work life hell for years. With her coworker weakened by cancer treatments, her sister still imprisoned, and zombies looking for an easy meal, Sarah’s only plan, if she can pull it off, is Survival.
SURVIVAL is a 14,000 word (approx. 45 pages) short story and was originally published in the Let's Scare Cancer to Death anthology.
Scroll up to get SURVIVAL today!
When Sarah escapes from her brutal abductors, she promises to return to rescue her twin sister, but with the walking dead invading Fort Worth, TX, she is forced to rely on a competitive coworker who made her work life hell for years. With her coworker weakened by cancer treatments, her sister still imprisoned, and zombies looking for an easy meal, Sarah’s only plan, if she can pull it off, is Survival.
SURVIVAL is a 14,000 word (approx. 45 pages) short story and was originally published in the Let's Scare Cancer to Death anthology.
Scroll up to get SURVIVAL today!
38 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 13, 2014
17 people are currently reading
181 people want to read
About the author
Rhonda Hopkins
20 books398 followersA little magic, a little mystery, a lot of heart
Young adult author who writes cozy mysteries, urban fantasy, and romance. She lives in Texas on a small farm with her family, a cat & dog, miniature cows and donkeys, and chickens.
Before becoming an author, Rhonda's career put her in close contact with people from all walks of life. She uses her past experiences to develop characters that are diverse and full of life.
Young adult author who writes cozy mysteries, urban fantasy, and romance. She lives in Texas on a small farm with her family, a cat & dog, miniature cows and donkeys, and chickens.
Before becoming an author, Rhonda's career put her in close contact with people from all walks of life. She uses her past experiences to develop characters that are diverse and full of life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
July 9, 2014
"Survival" is an excellent start to a serial horror story by Rhonda Hopkins. The story opens with a bang, and you're soon caught up in the tale of several women struggling to make it through the first night of what turns out be a zombie apocalypse.
Hopkins has chosen some atypical characters for her tale, particularly prickly Meredith, a woman who's just finished her last day of chemo treatment. I also liked that the first part of this story centered on three women, who each find their own strength in the midst of chaos.
I would have liked a little more scene-setting than we've gotten so far, but overall the story is very strong, and I definitely want to read more about these characters.
I'll be picking up the rest of these when they come out. Well done!
Hopkins has chosen some atypical characters for her tale, particularly prickly Meredith, a woman who's just finished her last day of chemo treatment. I also liked that the first part of this story centered on three women, who each find their own strength in the midst of chaos.
I would have liked a little more scene-setting than we've gotten so far, but overall the story is very strong, and I definitely want to read more about these characters.
I'll be picking up the rest of these when they come out. Well done!
May 23, 2014
Cancer ... and zombies ... for what is cancer, really, than some aspect of our own immune system turning against us and hijacking us into a walking ghoul? I read this short story as part of the Let's Scare Cancer to Death anthology to raise money for cancer research. I'm already 'shipping' Eric to the twins :-) Can't wait for the next book in the series.
June 14, 2014
The zombie apocalypse has started and twins Sarah and Dana Jamison are smack in the middle of it. This is a great beginning episode for a new serial series. Totally hooked me.
The characters are believable and the events are realistic. Hopkins provides enough intrigue and action to make you keep turning the pages. I can't wait for the next one!
If you're looking for an action-packed zombie story, grab Survival: Episode One.
The characters are believable and the events are realistic. Hopkins provides enough intrigue and action to make you keep turning the pages. I can't wait for the next one!
If you're looking for an action-packed zombie story, grab Survival: Episode One.
July 8, 2014
I was gifted a copy of this book when I won a contest the author held. This review is taken from my blog at www.nicolestoreyauthor.com I did not receive any compensation for this review and all opinions are my own.
Most everyone knows I am a huge #ZombieLit fan. Maybe it's because I love the grit and brutal honesty that is revealed in a dystopian-type world. Maybe it's because I watched too many classic horror movies as a kid (and still do). Whatever the reason, I am always on the lookout for a good #dystopian novel with down-to-earth characters and a great plot. I found it in author Rhonda Hopkins' latest release, Survival.
I was drawn in from the first three sentences:
Sarah Jamison's gaze met her twin's fear-filled blue eyes.
"I-"
"It's no use. The cuff is too tight. You're going to have to leave me."
I mean, who starts a zombie book like that???
I have to say that I was skeptical. These days, ZombieLit is all starting to read the same for me. Same plot, same characters, same settings. I've read a handful of dystopian stories in the past year that have caught my attention. The rest went into my "Did Not Finish Because It Bored Me to Tears" file – to be burned. Rhonda Hopkins has renewed my faith!
What I liked:
1. The characters aren't your typical neighbor-next-door types who suddenly find this phenomenal strength they never knew they had and, after three chapters, have become proficient with guns, bombs, martial arts, trapping, and first aid. She has a mixed bag of characters – sick, flawed, young, and yes, strong. In the short time it took me to read this book, I came to love them all. You see, I was pulled in by their flaws. Isn't that how we mostly relate to others? It's Hopkins' characters' flaws that make them real.
2. Setting: I swear, if I read one more story that takes place in a burned out, dead, no life for at least one hundred miles, can't find a bite to eat anywhere, no clothes, no medicine, and the world is now filled with savages- land, I may just gouge my own eyes out. WHY is it that authors automatically assume that THIS is where dystopian books must be set? I am sure the world would eventually come to that but many readers (myself included) like to start at the beginning of things. We like to know what led up to the empty small town with the decrepit gas station and a sign hanging by one chain and blowing in the hot breezes. Don't tell us that it wasn't always that way. Don't tell us that people used to come from three towns over just to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and homemade jams from Fanny's Roadside Market and now all that's left is an abandoned building with her apron still lying across the counter – show us!
Hopkin's does just that. She starts her story at the beginning, letting us get a feel for this Texas town and the people who live there. We get to know them before they become Linda Hamilton in the Terminator and start to kick arse.
3. Plot: In her first book, the author doesn't give too much away. Yes, we know there are zombies but we don't know much else. This is smart! She doesn't try to give her readers five years of back-story in the first three paragraphs. She gives some hints, some action, and lets the readers look around for a while. It was created with finesse. Hopkins didn't shove her story down my throat. She gave me just a taste and it was so good that I can't help but want more. Like I said - SMART!
4. Kids: This sort of goes back to characters but I wanted to make a point. Kids are young, not dumb. I detest books where kids are treated like babies who can't think for themselves, can't answer questions, can't contribute to what is going on. They are window dressing – someone to be told what to do, to be protected by the adults, and even killed off to pluck at the readers' heartstrings. I love that the author of Survival gives the kids a VOICE. She doesn't look over them. She doesn't treat them like extras to be killed off at her leisure or to be talked to like they have suddenly lost all means of comprehension.
What I Didn't Like:
Honestly, this is a personal preference and has nothing to do with the writing in the book, but it is a pet peeve of mine. I think the author could have chosen better cover art. I love the background but the girl on the front looks cartoonish and fake. Like I said, it is my opinion and doesn't take away from Hopkin's brilliant story. I just wished she had chosen something else. I believe a book this good deserves a cover that reflects that.
So, all in all, I give this book 5 stars and would give more if I could. I can't wait until the second in the series is available. Right now, Survival is only 0.99! Trust me, this is a steal so grab it quick!
Most everyone knows I am a huge #ZombieLit fan. Maybe it's because I love the grit and brutal honesty that is revealed in a dystopian-type world. Maybe it's because I watched too many classic horror movies as a kid (and still do). Whatever the reason, I am always on the lookout for a good #dystopian novel with down-to-earth characters and a great plot. I found it in author Rhonda Hopkins' latest release, Survival.
I was drawn in from the first three sentences:
Sarah Jamison's gaze met her twin's fear-filled blue eyes.
"I-"
"It's no use. The cuff is too tight. You're going to have to leave me."
I mean, who starts a zombie book like that???
I have to say that I was skeptical. These days, ZombieLit is all starting to read the same for me. Same plot, same characters, same settings. I've read a handful of dystopian stories in the past year that have caught my attention. The rest went into my "Did Not Finish Because It Bored Me to Tears" file – to be burned. Rhonda Hopkins has renewed my faith!
What I liked:
1. The characters aren't your typical neighbor-next-door types who suddenly find this phenomenal strength they never knew they had and, after three chapters, have become proficient with guns, bombs, martial arts, trapping, and first aid. She has a mixed bag of characters – sick, flawed, young, and yes, strong. In the short time it took me to read this book, I came to love them all. You see, I was pulled in by their flaws. Isn't that how we mostly relate to others? It's Hopkins' characters' flaws that make them real.
2. Setting: I swear, if I read one more story that takes place in a burned out, dead, no life for at least one hundred miles, can't find a bite to eat anywhere, no clothes, no medicine, and the world is now filled with savages- land, I may just gouge my own eyes out. WHY is it that authors automatically assume that THIS is where dystopian books must be set? I am sure the world would eventually come to that but many readers (myself included) like to start at the beginning of things. We like to know what led up to the empty small town with the decrepit gas station and a sign hanging by one chain and blowing in the hot breezes. Don't tell us that it wasn't always that way. Don't tell us that people used to come from three towns over just to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and homemade jams from Fanny's Roadside Market and now all that's left is an abandoned building with her apron still lying across the counter – show us!
Hopkin's does just that. She starts her story at the beginning, letting us get a feel for this Texas town and the people who live there. We get to know them before they become Linda Hamilton in the Terminator and start to kick arse.
3. Plot: In her first book, the author doesn't give too much away. Yes, we know there are zombies but we don't know much else. This is smart! She doesn't try to give her readers five years of back-story in the first three paragraphs. She gives some hints, some action, and lets the readers look around for a while. It was created with finesse. Hopkins didn't shove her story down my throat. She gave me just a taste and it was so good that I can't help but want more. Like I said - SMART!
4. Kids: This sort of goes back to characters but I wanted to make a point. Kids are young, not dumb. I detest books where kids are treated like babies who can't think for themselves, can't answer questions, can't contribute to what is going on. They are window dressing – someone to be told what to do, to be protected by the adults, and even killed off to pluck at the readers' heartstrings. I love that the author of Survival gives the kids a VOICE. She doesn't look over them. She doesn't treat them like extras to be killed off at her leisure or to be talked to like they have suddenly lost all means of comprehension.
What I Didn't Like:
Honestly, this is a personal preference and has nothing to do with the writing in the book, but it is a pet peeve of mine. I think the author could have chosen better cover art. I love the background but the girl on the front looks cartoonish and fake. Like I said, it is my opinion and doesn't take away from Hopkin's brilliant story. I just wished she had chosen something else. I believe a book this good deserves a cover that reflects that.
So, all in all, I give this book 5 stars and would give more if I could. I can't wait until the second in the series is available. Right now, Survival is only 0.99! Trust me, this is a steal so grab it quick!
March 1, 2015
Survival starts out with one of the main characters, Sarah escaping from the guys who have abducted her and her twin sister, Dana, who has cancer. It sounds like the zombie apocalypse has just recently started because people still have cell phones and cars. When Sara escapes, she goes to the only person she knows who lives nearby, Meredith, who unbeknownst to Sarah has also been dealing with cancer treatments. After some convincing Meredith lets her in and the story goes from there as they plan to rescue Dana.
I very much enjoyed how this story was written. It’s a nice example of how 2 people who normally don’t get along can attempt to work together for a common goal despite their differences. I’m not going to tell you if they succeed or not, that’s up to you to figure out for yourself . It shows humanity at maybe not its best, but at least it’s better than usual. People are so caught up in themselves anymore that people don’t take care of each other any longer. Instead of communities of people coming together and helping one another, we have each house is its own little world. It was nice to see that change.
There is quite a bit of action for such a short story. This definitely felt like it was a big story inside a little book. I’m glad the author decided to expand on this story in her Survival Series and give the readers the rest of the story. I know I am curious as to what happens next. That being said, had I not known to expect only a short story, I probably would have been mad at where it ended. I would like for it to be at least a tad bit longer, but since Rhonda Hopkins is coming out with the rest of the story, I suppose I can be patient enough to wait.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes an action packed zombie book, with main characters who seem to have relatable personalities.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I very much enjoyed how this story was written. It’s a nice example of how 2 people who normally don’t get along can attempt to work together for a common goal despite their differences. I’m not going to tell you if they succeed or not, that’s up to you to figure out for yourself . It shows humanity at maybe not its best, but at least it’s better than usual. People are so caught up in themselves anymore that people don’t take care of each other any longer. Instead of communities of people coming together and helping one another, we have each house is its own little world. It was nice to see that change.
There is quite a bit of action for such a short story. This definitely felt like it was a big story inside a little book. I’m glad the author decided to expand on this story in her Survival Series and give the readers the rest of the story. I know I am curious as to what happens next. That being said, had I not known to expect only a short story, I probably would have been mad at where it ended. I would like for it to be at least a tad bit longer, but since Rhonda Hopkins is coming out with the rest of the story, I suppose I can be patient enough to wait.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes an action packed zombie book, with main characters who seem to have relatable personalities.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 22, 2018
Action Packed!
This short story is jammed packed with action and strong females. If you like zombies and strong females, this is for you.
This short story is jammed packed with action and strong females. If you like zombies and strong females, this is for you.
June 13, 2018
Twins Sarah and Dana have been abducted at the beginning of the Zompoc. How bad can your luck be?
I enjoyed the story with a strong, take no prisoners female MC. Add in a snooty co-worker who happens to have cancer and a couple of kids and this makes for an interesting take on the Zompoc genre.
I liked the fact that Ms. Hopkins added in a new element (at least for me) of how a person who has cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy might fare during this type of event. Most books never touch on what might happen to the disabled and terminally ill when the SHTF.
This was a quick read but kept me engaged and entertained through it all. The narrator did a great job and added to my enjoyment of the book. I look forward to continuing this series to see what happens to these characters!
I enjoyed the story with a strong, take no prisoners female MC. Add in a snooty co-worker who happens to have cancer and a couple of kids and this makes for an interesting take on the Zompoc genre.
I liked the fact that Ms. Hopkins added in a new element (at least for me) of how a person who has cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy might fare during this type of event. Most books never touch on what might happen to the disabled and terminally ill when the SHTF.
This was a quick read but kept me engaged and entertained through it all. The narrator did a great job and added to my enjoyment of the book. I look forward to continuing this series to see what happens to these characters!
January 5, 2018
I’m not a horror fan, which means zombie-related stories come pretty far down my list of interests. I am however a fan of good writing, and heroism if it’s played out well. If the bravery is matched to a pretty young woman who can handle herself and is capable of using firearms, so much the better.
In this prequel, Rhonda Hopkins has produced an enthralling episode of action. Bad guys don’t always go down when hit, but that’s not a problem, because they can be hit again; harder. Within this short story the action is choreographed with care and it works. The dialogue and confrontation with the ‘nasties’ provide a pace so urgent the reader’s breathing rate will change.
Okay, there has to be a niggling negative. If the cover graphic was more realistic than cartoon standard it would give the story the credibility it richly deserves. Inanimate objects occasionally work for a cover, but when a person is to be used - for me, they must look real.
In summary, this is my first time reading this author, but the standard of her work is enough to guarantee I’ll follow this series as it takes off.
In this prequel, Rhonda Hopkins has produced an enthralling episode of action. Bad guys don’t always go down when hit, but that’s not a problem, because they can be hit again; harder. Within this short story the action is choreographed with care and it works. The dialogue and confrontation with the ‘nasties’ provide a pace so urgent the reader’s breathing rate will change.
Okay, there has to be a niggling negative. If the cover graphic was more realistic than cartoon standard it would give the story the credibility it richly deserves. Inanimate objects occasionally work for a cover, but when a person is to be used - for me, they must look real.
In summary, this is my first time reading this author, but the standard of her work is enough to guarantee I’ll follow this series as it takes off.
January 4, 2018
I haven't read all that much in the Zombie genre so I can't say how this compares with similarly themed stories but it certainly sets off at a cracking pace with the fight for survival starting right from the opening sentence almost; it was a nice touch that the initial 'survival' efforts were quite unrelated to the Zombie apocalypse occurring. It's probably premature to make comparisons but the opening scene could easily be one straight out of the hit tv series 'The Walking Dead,' though the cover does invite such comparisons, which given its current popularity, I'm not sure is such a good thing.
Although it would read quite well as a stand-alone story, I'm glad the author indicates there will be future instalments thus hopefully allowing the reader to explore the characters in greater depth. It's impossible to tell what direction the story will take in the future but the story has been written in such a way as to leave open all manner of possibilities and a yearning to know the hows and whys of the current situation the characters have found themselves plunged into.
***
Although it would read quite well as a stand-alone story, I'm glad the author indicates there will be future instalments thus hopefully allowing the reader to explore the characters in greater depth. It's impossible to tell what direction the story will take in the future but the story has been written in such a way as to leave open all manner of possibilities and a yearning to know the hows and whys of the current situation the characters have found themselves plunged into.
***
January 10, 2018
Fun read
The characters were believable and their actions made sense. It was a fun story that kept me turning the pages. Will check out Rhonda's other stories.
The characters were believable and their actions made sense. It was a fun story that kept me turning the pages. Will check out Rhonda's other stories.
June 28, 2018
Fast paced with heart thumping action!
Zombie stories aren’t usually within the genres I read, but I really enjoyed The Consuming, a short horror story by this author, so I gave Survival a try. I wasn’t disappointed. The action is non-stop, and there is just enough graphic violence to pull you into a horrifying situation, which seems all too real.
Ms. Hopkins does a great job of portraying the ravenous, walking dead. We get a solid personal glimpse of the characters fighting for survival, but I’d like to see a little more depth in their development. I’m hoping for a follow up that will let us get more personally involved with these characters!
Overall, the author makes the most of this compact prequel. Fast paced with heart thumping action. Well worth a read!
Zombie stories aren’t usually within the genres I read, but I really enjoyed The Consuming, a short horror story by this author, so I gave Survival a try. I wasn’t disappointed. The action is non-stop, and there is just enough graphic violence to pull you into a horrifying situation, which seems all too real.
Ms. Hopkins does a great job of portraying the ravenous, walking dead. We get a solid personal glimpse of the characters fighting for survival, but I’d like to see a little more depth in their development. I’m hoping for a follow up that will let us get more personally involved with these characters!
Overall, the author makes the most of this compact prequel. Fast paced with heart thumping action. Well worth a read!
September 7, 2014
Survival by Rhonda Hopkins is a zombie short story, the first in a series.
Two sisters, twins, are in a basement. Dana is handcuffed, the other, Sarah has gotten free. Sarah breaks through a window and barely makes it out before the kidnappers come to investigate the sound of breaking glass. She hops in her SUV, which the kidnappers also have, and drives to her neighborhood to get help and supplies to rescue her sister.
As she drives, she notices the strange behavior of the people out on the street. Sarah has been trying to get in touch with her cousin, Brian, but he isn’t answering his phone. She stops in at the neighbor’s house to see if any help can be had there. Margaret is home but sick. Her husband is out of town and also not answering his phone. Fortunately, he has a cache of weapons. Sarah loads up the weapons in a bag and is off to rescue her sister, dragging Margaret with her. Their final goal is to end at the courthouse which can be made into a fortress. On the way to rescue Dana, they rescue and young girl and a teen boy, taking them along for the ride.
Survival starts out with action and doesn’t slow down. It is a quick, fairly satisfying read that leaves one wanting the next installment. These three women are smart, resourceful and compassionate. When imagining oneself in this situation it is easy to identify with any of the three. I would recommend this book to those who love stories with strong women and those who love zombie stories.
Two sisters, twins, are in a basement. Dana is handcuffed, the other, Sarah has gotten free. Sarah breaks through a window and barely makes it out before the kidnappers come to investigate the sound of breaking glass. She hops in her SUV, which the kidnappers also have, and drives to her neighborhood to get help and supplies to rescue her sister.
As she drives, she notices the strange behavior of the people out on the street. Sarah has been trying to get in touch with her cousin, Brian, but he isn’t answering his phone. She stops in at the neighbor’s house to see if any help can be had there. Margaret is home but sick. Her husband is out of town and also not answering his phone. Fortunately, he has a cache of weapons. Sarah loads up the weapons in a bag and is off to rescue her sister, dragging Margaret with her. Their final goal is to end at the courthouse which can be made into a fortress. On the way to rescue Dana, they rescue and young girl and a teen boy, taking them along for the ride.
Survival starts out with action and doesn’t slow down. It is a quick, fairly satisfying read that leaves one wanting the next installment. These three women are smart, resourceful and compassionate. When imagining oneself in this situation it is easy to identify with any of the three. I would recommend this book to those who love stories with strong women and those who love zombie stories.
January 20, 2016
I listened to the Audible version of this book.
"A Really Good Zombie Short Story"
SURVIVAL was a great listen. It had all the elements of a full length story. Good world building plus likable characters. I especially liked the protagonist Sarah. This was exciting and a good zombie thriller set in Ft. Worth, TX. which I also liked. I wish it had been a little longer although it was a good start to a new series. I would love to hear a continuation of this story. It was engrossing. Rhonda Hopkins is a wonderful author.
Lisa L. Wiley's performance was superb. She had the perfect voice for Sarah. She made this an enjoyable listen with great voice inflections and a good pace. She made it sound effortless. An overall super job.
"This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of Audiobook Blast."
July 10, 2014
I was fortunate to be able to read this tale prior to release. The bottom line is that this is hands down my favorite read so far in 2014. Short story or not, this tale will stick with you. This story opens with a punch in the throat and has you gasping until the last words on the page fade as you turn off your Kindle.
It can be a challenge to really offer up characters with depth that you care about in a short story, yet Rhonda Hopkins does just that. And you will experience a roller coaster of emotions throughout. It matters very little if you are a fan of the zombie genre, this is a story that will pull you in and refuse to let go.
So do yourself a favor...read this gem and then tell a friend.
It can be a challenge to really offer up characters with depth that you care about in a short story, yet Rhonda Hopkins does just that. And you will experience a roller coaster of emotions throughout. It matters very little if you are a fan of the zombie genre, this is a story that will pull you in and refuse to let go.
So do yourself a favor...read this gem and then tell a friend.
January 23, 2016
Actual rating 3.5 stars.
Zombies and Cancer....something I have never seen together before in any book, tv show, or movie. This story starts us off right in the middle of the action. It's not often that a book does that, and it definitely grabs the reader right away. The only downside in this case is that I would have liked to see a little more back story/ world building. We are given enough information to understand, but not much more. I wondered why the cancer was included, but I figure it will be a major facter in the future of the series. I wish this was a little longer as well! The narrator of the audiobook did a great job, and I liked her voice. I enjoyed this audiobook and I hope to continue with the next
I was provided this audiobook in exchange for an honest review
Zombies and Cancer....something I have never seen together before in any book, tv show, or movie. This story starts us off right in the middle of the action. It's not often that a book does that, and it definitely grabs the reader right away. The only downside in this case is that I would have liked to see a little more back story/ world building. We are given enough information to understand, but not much more. I wondered why the cancer was included, but I figure it will be a major facter in the future of the series. I wish this was a little longer as well! The narrator of the audiobook did a great job, and I liked her voice. I enjoyed this audiobook and I hope to continue with the next
I was provided this audiobook in exchange for an honest review
November 10, 2017
I love a good old Zombie tale and to be fair this one does exactly what it says on the tin. Survival is very much a book for readers who enjoy an action filled tale of the undead. Perhaps it lacked an occasional sprinkle of finesse but overall I have to say this was one book I thoroughly enjoyed. I appears to be the beginning of a series and I will certainly look for the next one. If I have any criticism I would have liked to see a bit more depth but this I a fairly short piece and I guess there had to be compromise. Quick read, entertaining, leaves you thinking about the next one. What more could you ask Good read.
December 2, 2014
I had a terrific time reading the first installment of the Survival series. Hopkins is very adept at introducing characters that the reader wants to follow, and has an excellent sense of time and place that adds an extra layer of creepiness often not found in standard Zombie fare. With clear compelling characters, exciting action, and an emotional punch, the first installment is both satisfying and whets the appetite for more.
February 2, 2016
** I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review **
Sarah and Dana are twin sisters and find themselves kidnapped in the middle of the fresh outbreak of a zombie apocalypse! Sarah escapes and comes back with Meredith a work associate to rescue her..Sarah kicks some major butt and Dana and her escape and rescue some others on the way to a safe place....super cool story and I cant wait for #2!!!
Sarah and Dana are twin sisters and find themselves kidnapped in the middle of the fresh outbreak of a zombie apocalypse! Sarah escapes and comes back with Meredith a work associate to rescue her..Sarah kicks some major butt and Dana and her escape and rescue some others on the way to a safe place....super cool story and I cant wait for #2!!!
June 21, 2014
ZOMBIES I never thought I would like Zombie stories. Who knew?
I quickly got into the story from page 1. Didn't want it to end.
This kind is the second short I have read on ZOMBIES. I might try a full length book next.
I Can't wait for the next installment of this series.
I quickly got into the story from page 1. Didn't want it to end.
This kind is the second short I have read on ZOMBIES. I might try a full length book next.
I Can't wait for the next installment of this series.
October 29, 2015
Rhonda Hopkins is on to a great novel with this short story about two sisters battling the zombie apocalypses. Go along for the ride while the escape their kidnappers and save a friend along the way. This book is a must read for any zombie fan and book lover. get your copy today and you will not be disappointed.
July 6, 2014
I found Rhonda Hopkins' Survival to be a gripping story. As in, if I hadn't kept a grip on my pants she would have scared them off of me. The characters were compelling and believable, and I cared about their plight. At the end of the story I was left wanting more.
June 16, 2014
Another fantastic read by the very talented Rhonda Hopkins.I loved getting to know the characters in Survival and how they all get together to try and survive in a world riddled with zombies,I'm looking forward to the new series to see where their journey takes them.
July 31, 2014
Great beginning to a serial story. I can't wait for the next installment.
February 28, 2015
From the first sentence I was sent on a non-stop ride of action and gore. Zombies are not the only monsters out there! Can't wait for episode 2!
July 7, 2014
a thrill ride from cover to cover.
March 8, 2019
It is unfair to leave a poor review of a book just because it belongs to a genre that you do not like or do not want to understand. Poor reviews are only valid if there is gratuitous sex or violence or bad language or scenes that are genuinely distasteful. They are also valid when the writer is not very good at their craft.
This book does not fall victim to any of these shortcomings. It is excellently written by a writer who knows her craft well. Let me explain.
However unbelievable the zombie genre might appear, if handled skilfully it can haunt, amaze, horrify, and frighten (yes, especially frighten!) as it reaches out to some of the darkest fears that lurk in our subconscious. Of something, completely out of the blue, that suddenly rips apart the warm and comfortable fabric of our daily existence, and the zombie genre is at the forefront when it comes to doing this. Why do we like to be horrified and frightened? No idea! Maybe there are elements of schadenfreude in it. As long as we are watching it all happen from a comfortable distance, we can even enjoy it. And that is why we go to see horror movies. And that is why we read Stephen King; the master. Whatever it is, the zombie genre is out there among the front-runners when it comes to bestselling works.
And this writer reminds me of Stephen King. Like him, she is able to make everything that happens so very believable because it is skilfully set against a subtly constructed background of everyday domesticities. Going to school. Breakfast-time and cereal. References to parents and routine day-to-day activities and events. A new day, peacefully chugging away in all its normality…… and suddenly, wham! Something isn’t right. The first, faint pricklings of alarm, in the beginning quite naturally dismissed, only to gradually become more real, thanks to little triggers the writer is pulling, of which the reader is hardly even aware. And as we read on, we begin to realise that the characters – – whom the reader has built up in our imagination as being any one of us in the readership – – are in mortal danger, and we know enough about them now to be able to care for them. How the writer accomplishes these deft manoeuvres is what separates a good writer from a bad one, and this writer is good. Very good! All the visual clues are there, all the subtle nuances of cosy everyday life that, with all our hearts, we want to preserve. Events that only in our nightmares can we ever visualise as reality. But, human beings as we all are, we can never escape our nightmares; a good writer can help us to confront these nightmares from a safe distance, to entertain, to give pause to thank our lucky stars for what we have. And this short “taster” promises much for its readers in what has all the makings of a bestselling series.
I started reading this short book on my Kindle in bed. Became uneasy. Switched off the light, and put away my Kindle. Had troubled dreams. But boy, let me tell you this, when I woke up next morning my hand stretched straight out towards my Kindle again! Job done!
This book does not fall victim to any of these shortcomings. It is excellently written by a writer who knows her craft well. Let me explain.
However unbelievable the zombie genre might appear, if handled skilfully it can haunt, amaze, horrify, and frighten (yes, especially frighten!) as it reaches out to some of the darkest fears that lurk in our subconscious. Of something, completely out of the blue, that suddenly rips apart the warm and comfortable fabric of our daily existence, and the zombie genre is at the forefront when it comes to doing this. Why do we like to be horrified and frightened? No idea! Maybe there are elements of schadenfreude in it. As long as we are watching it all happen from a comfortable distance, we can even enjoy it. And that is why we go to see horror movies. And that is why we read Stephen King; the master. Whatever it is, the zombie genre is out there among the front-runners when it comes to bestselling works.
And this writer reminds me of Stephen King. Like him, she is able to make everything that happens so very believable because it is skilfully set against a subtly constructed background of everyday domesticities. Going to school. Breakfast-time and cereal. References to parents and routine day-to-day activities and events. A new day, peacefully chugging away in all its normality…… and suddenly, wham! Something isn’t right. The first, faint pricklings of alarm, in the beginning quite naturally dismissed, only to gradually become more real, thanks to little triggers the writer is pulling, of which the reader is hardly even aware. And as we read on, we begin to realise that the characters – – whom the reader has built up in our imagination as being any one of us in the readership – – are in mortal danger, and we know enough about them now to be able to care for them. How the writer accomplishes these deft manoeuvres is what separates a good writer from a bad one, and this writer is good. Very good! All the visual clues are there, all the subtle nuances of cosy everyday life that, with all our hearts, we want to preserve. Events that only in our nightmares can we ever visualise as reality. But, human beings as we all are, we can never escape our nightmares; a good writer can help us to confront these nightmares from a safe distance, to entertain, to give pause to thank our lucky stars for what we have. And this short “taster” promises much for its readers in what has all the makings of a bestselling series.
I started reading this short book on my Kindle in bed. Became uneasy. Switched off the light, and put away my Kindle. Had troubled dreams. But boy, let me tell you this, when I woke up next morning my hand stretched straight out towards my Kindle again! Job done!
June 18, 2018
When I first saw Zombie books on different book sites - I asked myself how can an author make a book about zombies interesting enough to hold my attention.
Well I have been proven wrong----this book grabbed me and did not let me go. I am hoping that the author has written more about these characters and yes the zombies because I am hooked.
Even though this is a short story I did not want it to end because it is not stop action and then boom it stops (it is like hitting a brick wall).
I love this story and I am itching to read more.
I will admit I stand corrected regarding zombies---the author is the second one that kept my interest and I am sure that there are more great zombie stories out there (and I will find them).
Well I have been proven wrong----this book grabbed me and did not let me go. I am hoping that the author has written more about these characters and yes the zombies because I am hooked.
Even though this is a short story I did not want it to end because it is not stop action and then boom it stops (it is like hitting a brick wall).
I love this story and I am itching to read more.
I will admit I stand corrected regarding zombies---the author is the second one that kept my interest and I am sure that there are more great zombie stories out there (and I will find them).
July 30, 2018
An Innovative Zombie Story!
'Survival (Survival Series Prequel)' by Rhonda Hopkins is a short action-packed horror story, which paves the way for a full-length novel/series.
I love Hopkins' fresh take on the zombie genre & am really intrigued to find out more about the fate that awaits her characters.
Primarily, I believe 'Survival ....' will appeal to readers who love horror stories, especially zombie, but I also believe readers who like stories depicting strong, independent women, especially those who are willing to consider the safety of others before their own needs/illness, will also enjoy Hopkins' story.
'Survival (Survival Series Prequel)' by Rhonda Hopkins is a short action-packed horror story, which paves the way for a full-length novel/series.
I love Hopkins' fresh take on the zombie genre & am really intrigued to find out more about the fate that awaits her characters.
Primarily, I believe 'Survival ....' will appeal to readers who love horror stories, especially zombie, but I also believe readers who like stories depicting strong, independent women, especially those who are willing to consider the safety of others before their own needs/illness, will also enjoy Hopkins' story.
September 4, 2018
SHORT READ
I knew this was short book as it was advertised as such as a prequel to the Survival series, so it was a quick one day read. It tells how Sarah has to leave her twin sister behind after they had been abducted and needs go for help. The outside world is a dangerous place with zombies roaming the streets and lawless gangs on the loose. There are some good descriptions of near misses and the tension does not drop for a moment. Fantasy fans will love this one.
I knew this was short book as it was advertised as such as a prequel to the Survival series, so it was a quick one day read. It tells how Sarah has to leave her twin sister behind after they had been abducted and needs go for help. The outside world is a dangerous place with zombies roaming the streets and lawless gangs on the loose. There are some good descriptions of near misses and the tension does not drop for a moment. Fantasy fans will love this one.
April 24, 2018
This is a very short story but it was well written. It was mainly about two sisters that were taken by some roughnecks during the zompoc.One escapes and vows to go back and save her sister. She runs across another female character willing to help her save her sister. This was refreshing. I enjoyed this very short story and hope at some point the Author expand on this story.
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